Modular X-ray detectors and systems

Abstract

Some embodiments include an X-ray detector comprising a housing, a sensor array disposed within the housing and configured to generate image data in response to incident X-rays, control logic disposed within the housing, a connector interface integrated with the housing, and an adapter removably connectable to the connector interface, the control logic configurable to operate in a plurality of operational modes, and in a first one of the operational modes, the control logic is configured to process the image data and / or transmit the image data via the adapter in a different manner than in a second one of the operational modes.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] X-ray detectors may be used to generate two-dimensional images or videos in response to incident X-rays. X-ray detectors may be designed according to specific specifications, such as customer specifications. Different designs, such as for different customers, may have different specifications. As a result, the same X-ray detector may need to be redesigned to work in different systems, such as for different customers. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0002] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an X-ray detector with an adapter, according to some embodiments. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an X-ray detector with a memory configured to store multiple configuration data sets, according to some embodiments. [Figure 3A] 1 is a block diagram of an X-ray detector with different adapters according to some embodiments. [Figure 3B] 1 is a block diagram of an X-ray detector with different adapters according to some embodiments. [Figure 4] 1 is a flowchart for configuring an X-ray detector, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an X-ray detector with a processor and / or programmable logic device according to some embodiments. [Figure 6] 1 is a flowchart for configuring an X-ray detector with a memory configured to store multiple configuration data sets, according to some embodiments. [Figure 7] 2 is a flowchart for configuring the x-ray detector of FIG. 1 according to some embodiments. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart for configuring an X-ray detector with adapter-based configuration data, according to some embodiments. [Figure 9] 1 is a block diagram of an X-ray imaging system, according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Some embodiments relate to modular X-ray detectors and systems, particularly to modular X-ray detectors and systems with adapters. X-ray detectors can be used in a variety of applications. Some systems, such as cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) systems, can use high-reliability communication techniques to ensure each image reaches a host computer. Other types of systems, such as surgical systems, can use low-latency communication techniques to minimize or ensure maximum latency between image acquisition and image display to improve the surgeon's hand-eye coordination.

[0004] Certain hardware interfaces may support system behaviors such as high-reliability communications, while other hardware interfaces support low-latency communications. If an X-ray device is configured with hardware that supports one mode of operation, it may not be able to support other or various operations. As a result, different types of X-ray detectors may be required to support both or multiple operations. Using multiple types of X-ray detectors can increase costs for consumers, increase costs for manufacturers, and increase maintenance costs. While multiple different X-ray detectors are required to support multiple modes of operation, the embodiments described herein enable a single modular X-ray detector with an adapter to support multiple modes of operation.

[0005] 1 is a block diagram of an X-ray detector including an adapter, according to some embodiments. Some embodiments include a modular X-ray detector 102'. The modular X-ray detector 102' includes an X-ray detector 102 and an adapter 104. The X-ray detector 102 and the adapter 104 are integrated to form the modular X-ray detector 102'.

[0006] The X-ray detector 102 is a device configured to acquire data in response to incident X-rays 116. In some embodiments, the data may include image data, video data, or the like. The X-ray detector 102 includes a housing 110, a sensor array 112, control logic 114, and a first connector interface 108-1. The housing 110 is configured to encapsulate the sensor array 112 and the control logic 114.

[0007] The sensor array 112 is configured to generate an image in response to incident X-ray radiation 116 and is disposed within the housing. The sensor array 112 may include various sensors configured to generate data based on the incident X-rays. The sensor array 112 may include direct conversion sensors, indirect conversion sensors, X-ray conversion materials (e.g., scintillator materials), etc.

[0008] The control logic 114 is disposed within the housing 110 and is connected to the sensor array 112. The control logic 114 is configured to control the sensor array 112, the processing of image data from the sensor array 112, the transmission of that data from the X-ray detector 102, and other operations of the X-ray detector 102. The control logic 114 may include a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), microcontrol logic, a programmable logic device (e.g., a field-programmable gate array (FPGA)), discrete circuitry, or a combination of such devices. Additionally, other interface devices, such as a circuit chipset, a hub, memory control logic, or a communication interface, may be part of the control logic 114 and connect the control logic 114 to internal and external components of the X-ray detector 102.

[0009] The first connector interface 108-1 is at least partially integrated on the outside of the housing 110. The first connector interface 108-1 is electrically connected to the control logic 114.

[0010] The adapter 104 is a device removably connectable to the X-ray detector 102 at a first connector interface 108-1. The adapter 104 includes at least two connector interfaces, including a second connector interface 108-2 and a third connector interface 108-3. The second connector interface 108-2 is configured to physically and electrically mate with the first connector interface 108-1. For example, the first connector interface 108-1 and the second connector interface 108-2 may be configured according to a standardized connector interface specification, such as a small form-factor pluggable (SFP) interface, SFP+, quad small form-factor pluggable (QSFP), QSFP+, QSFP28, XFP, C-form-factor pluggable (CFP), Universal Serial Bus (USB), Ethernet, or optical fiber. However, in other embodiments, the first connector interface 108-1 and the second connector interface 108-2 may be proprietary connector interfaces.

[0011] The third connector interface 108-3 may be the same as or different from the first connector interface 108-1 and the second connector interface 108-2. For example, the third connector interface 108-3 may include an RJ-45 interface, an optical fiber interface, an Ethernet interface, an Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) interface, a Synchronous Optical Network (SONET) interface, an SDH interface, a Plesiochronous Digital Hierarchy (PDH) interface, a fieldbus interface, a token ring interface, an Optical Transport Network (OTN) interface, a single-mode fiber (SMF) interface, or a multimode fiber interface (MMF), etc.

[0012] The control logic 114 is configurable to operate in multiple operating modes. An operating mode is a method or means of operating the system and is characterized by the hardware and the desired use of the detector, such as a high-performance detector, a high-reliability detector, or other application required by the system. In different operating modes, the control logic 114 may process and / or transmit data from the sensor array 112 differently. For example, in one operating mode, the control logic 114 may be configured to transmit image data from the sensor array 112 with higher or guaranteed reliability, while in another operating mode, the control logic 114 may be configured to transmit image data with lower latency. In multiple operating modes, the processing of image data and / or transmission of image data via the adapter 104 differs between a first one of the operating modes and another one of the operating modes. The control logic 114 may currently be configured to operate in the first operating mode but not the second operating mode. However, the control logic 114 may be reconfigured to operate in the second operating mode. In other embodiments, the control logic 114 may be configured to operate in either mode, depending on the adapter 104.

[0013] Control logic 114 and connector interface 108-1 are configured to transmit data at a data rate equal to or greater than the maximum data rate in the operating mode, because even if the current adapter 104 is not capable of such transmission at the maximum data rate, another operating mode associated with a different adapter 104 may operate at a higher data rate.

[0014] Different adapters 104 and different operating modes use the same X-ray detector 102. However, the modular X-ray detector 102' has different operating modes. A single X-ray detector 102 can be tracked with a single part number, tested using a single test procedure and a single set of test equipment, etc. The X-ray detector 102 can be replaced with an identical X-ray detector 102 regardless of the adapter 104 or operating mode.

[0015] While different adapters 104 may need to be tracked and tested separately, more complex and / or more expensive components, such as the sensor array 112, may not need to be tested multiple times in multiple different operating modes. The interface provided by the adapter 104 may not affect the testing of the sensor array 112. If the adapter 104 fails, the X-ray detector 102 may be used with a different adapter 104 without the need to retest the X-ray detector 102. Furthermore, if the adapter 104 is changed, the X-ray detector 102 does not need to be retested.

[0016] In some embodiments, the modular X-ray detector 102′ may be connected to a computer 106. The computer 106 may include a system in which the modular X-ray detector 102′ may be installed, an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) system that configures the modular X-ray detector, or a technician's or other user's computer. The computer 106 may be configured to store multiple configuration data sets for multiple operational modes. Each operational mode may be associated with a different configuration data set. Each configuration data set may include, for example, firmware or software for the control logic 114. Further, the configuration data may include configuration data for the adapter 104. When the control logic 114 is configured with a particular configuration data set, the control logic 114 is configured to operate in the associated operational mode. The configuration data includes information used to set up the control logic 114 to perform functions for any given operation. For example, one configuration data set may include software and firmware for the control logic 114 that, when executed by the control logic 114, causes the control logic 114 to operate in a higher reliability or guaranteed reliability operational mode. In another configuration data set, the configuration data set may include software and firmware for control logic 114 that, when executed by control logic 114, causes control logic 114 to operate in a lower latency mode of operation.

[0017] In some embodiments, the control logic 114 may be configured to communicate with the computer 106 to receive a configuration data set associated with the currently installed adapter 104. The control logic 114 may be configured to identify the control logic 114 and the adapter 104 to the computer 106 so that the computer 106 can transmit the associated configuration data set. In other embodiments, the computer 106 may transmit the configuration data set based on the identification of the adapter 104 and / or the selected mode of operation of the modular X-ray detector 102′.

[0018] Although the configuration data may be transmitted to the control logic 114 via the adapter 104, in other embodiments, the configuration data may be transmitted in a different manner. For example, the X-ray detector 102 may include an alternative interface (AI) 109, such as a wireless communication interface, such as WiFi or Bluetooth. The configuration data set may be transmitted via the wireless communication interface. In other embodiments, the alternative interface 109 may include an alternative physical interface, such as USB, external SATA (eSATA), Firewire, or a memory card slot. The computer 106 and / or computer-readable media containing the configuration data set may be connected to the alternative physical interface and transmitted to the control logic 114.

[0019] Different adapters 104 and different associated configuration data sets may transform the modular X-ray detector 102′ into different devices. For example, a first adapter 104 and a first set of configuration data may configure the modular X-ray detector 102′ to operate reliably. For example, the first set of configuration data may implement a communication protocol such as Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) or another protocol that may ensure that all data is transmitted in order over a potentially unreliable network. To ensure that data is not lost even if there is a relative delay in acquiring data from the modular X-ray detector 102′, the control logic 114 may perform additional buffering or feedback to prevent image loss. In a specific example, a reliable mode of operation may be used for a computed tomography (CT) system in which multiple images and multiple exposures are taken during a single scan of a patient. If one of the images is corrupted or lost, the entire procedure may need to be performed again, increasing the patient's dose.

[0020] The second adapter 104 and associated second configuration data set may configure the modular X-ray detector 102' to operate using a lower-latency protocol, such as User Datagram Protocol (UDP), CoaXPress, or a streaming video protocol. Thus, the same X-ray detector 102 may be used with a different adapter 104 and / or a different configuration data set to operate as a high-reliability device or a low-latency device. In a specific example, the modular X-ray detector 102' configured for low latency may be used in an interventional procedure where a surgeon views real-time images while performing a procedure, such as stent placement. The processing delay between image acquisition and transmission of the image from the modular X-ray detector 102' may be minimized by the configuration data set and the particular adapter 104. While high reliability and low latency are used as examples of characteristics of different combinations of configuration data sets and adapters 104, in other embodiments, different combinations may have different characteristics.

[0021] In some embodiments, the modularity and reconfigurability of the X-ray detector 102 allows for further configuration as new adapters 104 become available. For example, a new adapter 104 may be developed with an SFP+ form factor. The new adapter 104 may be installed in an existing X-ray detector 102, and a new set of configuration data may be installed in the control logic 114. As a result, new modes of operation may become available for the same X-ray detector 102. In some embodiments, new modes of operation may become available without having to return the modular X-ray detector 102' to the OEM.

[0022] By using the X-ray detector 102 as part of a modular X-ray detector 102', manufacturers can reduce costs, delays, or maintenance burdens. Manufacturers can design and support a single X-ray detector 102 that can be integrated with various adapters 104 and various sets of configuration data to provide different, potentially mutually exclusive, modes of operation. Additionally, user costs can be reduced. End users may no longer need to purchase separately configured X-ray detectors for two or more different applications. A single X-ray detector 102 can be reconfigured as described herein and used for different applications.

[0023] 2 is a block diagram of an X-ray detector with a memory configured to store multiple configuration data sets, according to some embodiments. The modular X-ray detector 102' may be similar to the modular X-ray detector 102' of FIG. 1 described above. However, the X-ray detector 102 includes a memory 120.

[0024] Memory 120 may include dynamic random access memory (DRAM) modules according to various standards, such as DDR-DDR5, static random access memory (SRAM), non-volatile memory such as flash, spin transfer torque magnetoresistive random access memory (STT-MRAM), or phase change RAM, or magnetic or optical media. Memory 120 may also include a combination of such storage devices.

[0025] Memory 120 may be configured to store multiple configuration data sets. Each operational mode may be associated with a different configuration data set. Each configuration data set may include firmware or software for control logic 114, etc. Additionally, the configuration data may include configuration data for adapter 104.

[0026] The memory 120 may store an indication of a current operating mode of the modular X-ray detector 102′. The current operating mode may include a flag, a register, a storage location in the memory 120, etc., along with information indicative of the current operating mode. The control logic 114 may be configured to select a configuration data set based on the indication of the current operating mode. The control logic 114 may be configured to operate in the current operating mode using the selected configuration data set.

[0027] In some embodiments, control logic 114 is configured to select one of the operational modes based on adapter 104. For example, control logic 114 may be configured to communicate with adapter 104, for example, via an inter-integrated circuit (I2C) interface at connector interfaces 108-1 and 108-2. Via the I2C interface, control logic 114 may receive an indication of adapter 104, or an indication of an operational mode stored in adapter 104, similar to the indication of the current operational mode discussed above. Based on this information, control logic 114 may select one of the operational modes. In some embodiments, the received information may be an indication of the operational mode itself. In other embodiments, control logic 114 may translate the information into an indication of the operational mode. For example, control logic 114 may identify adapter 104. Adapter 104 may be associated with a single operational mode. That single operational mode may be selected and used to select an associated configuration data set. The control logic 114 may be configured to operate in a selected one of the operational modes using the associated set of configuration data.

[0028] 3A and 3B are block diagrams of X-ray detectors with different adapters, according to some embodiments. Referring to FIG. 3A, the modular X-ray detector 102' may be similar to the modular X-ray detector 102' described above. However, the first connector interface 108-1 is an SFP+ interface 208-1. The adapter 104 is an SFP+-to-RJ45 transceiver 104-1. The third connector interface 108-3 is an RJ45 interface 208-3. The control logic 114 is configured to communicate via the RJ45 interface, for example, by using TCP over Ethernet, as represented by the Ethernet 210-1 configuration.

[0029] Referring to FIG. 3B, the modular X-ray detector 102′ is identical to the modular X-ray detector 102′ of FIG. 3A except for the configuration of the adapter 104 and the control logic 114. Specifically, the hardware of the X-ray detector 102 is the same. The adapter 104 is an SFP+ to CoaXPress over fiber transceiver 104-2. The third connector interface 108-3 is a fiber interface 208-4. The control logic 114 can be configured to communicate over the fiber interface 208-4 in accordance with the CoaXPress standard, represented by the CoaXPress 210-2 configuration.

[0030] Thus, the X-ray detector 102 can be configured or reconfigured to operate in at least two operating modes. A first operating mode is TCP over Ethernet and a second operating mode is CoaXPress over fiber. As a result, the first operating mode may have higher latency than the second operating mode, but the first operating mode has higher reliability than the second operating mode.

[0031] 4 is a flowchart of configuring an X-ray detector, according to some embodiments. With reference to FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, a modular X-ray detector 102' is used as an example. At 400, an X-ray detector 102 is received.

[0032] At 402, a first operational mode is selected from among a plurality of operational modes of the x-ray detector. For example, an indication of the operational mode may be set in control logic 114. In another embodiment, the operational mode may be selected on computer 106.

[0033] At 408, control logic 114 is configured according to the first mode of operation. For example, software, firmware, etc. may be loaded into control logic 114 via alternate interface 109. In another embodiment, a configuration data set may be selected from memory 120 and loaded into control logic 114.

[0034] At 410, a first adapter 104 associated with a first operational mode is selected. Although the first adapter 104 may be associated with other operational modes, the configuration data set and the adapter 104 create a specific combination. At 412, the first adapter 104 is installed in connector interface 108-1.

[0035] Although operations 408, 410, and 412 are described in a particular order, they may be performed in a different order in other embodiments. For example, an adapter may be selected at 410 and installed at 412 before configuring the control logic 114 at 408. Configuring the control logic at 408 may occur by communication through the first adapter 104 that is installed.

[0036] For example, computer 106 may select an operational mode. A first operational mode may be input into computer 106. In other embodiments, memory 120 may include an indication of the first operational mode. The first operational mode may be communicated to computer 106. Computer 106 may store configuration data sets for multiple operational modes of modular X-ray detector 102′. Computer 106 may select the configuration data set for the first operational mode. The selected configuration data set may be sent to control logic 114 and used to configure the control logic at 408.

[0037] In some embodiments, the modular X-ray detector 102′ may be reconfigured for a second mode of operation. After configuring the control logic 114 according to the first mode of operation at 408, a second mode of operation different from the first mode of operation is selected from among the modes of operation of the X-ray detector at 414. The second mode of operation may be selected similarly to selecting the first mode of operation at 402. At 416, the control logic 114 is configured according to the second mode of operation. The control logic 114 may be configured in a manner similar to the configuration at 408, but with configuration data associated with the second mode of operation.

[0038] In some embodiments, the adapter 104 may remain the same after selecting the second operating mode at 414. The set of configuration data used to configure the control logic 114 according to the second operating mode at 416 may be different from the set of configuration data for the first operating mode, but may be associated with the same first adapter 104. In other embodiments, the second operating mode may be associated with a second adapter 104 that is different from the first adapter 104. At 418, a second adapter associated with the second operating mode, different from the first adapter 104, is selected. At 420, the second adapter 104 is installed in the connector interface 108-1.

[0039] In some embodiments, changing the adapter 104 may activate a reconfiguration of the control logic 114. For example, a second operating mode is selected at 414. A second adapter is then selected at 418 and installed at 420. The control logic 114 may be configured to detect the second adapter 104 and identify the second operating mode and associated set of configuration data based on the second adapter 104, as described above. The control logic 114 may then reconfigure itself according to the second operating mode. As a result, the modular X-ray detector 102′ can be converted into a different device simply by changing the adapter 104 from one type to another.

[0040] 5 is a block diagram of an X-ray detector with a processor and / or a programmable logic device, according to some embodiments. The modular X-ray detector 102' may be similar to the modular X-ray detector 102' described above. In some embodiments, the control logic 114 includes an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) 114-1, a processor 114-2, and a programmable logic device 114-3. The ASIC 114-1, the processor 114-2, and the programmable logic device 114-3 are connected to a memory 120.

[0041] The ASIC 114-1 is an application specific integrated circuit configured to read image data from the sensor array 112. The ASIC 114-1 may store the image data in memory. The processor 114-2 may include a central processing unit (CPU) such as an Advanced RISC Machine (ARM) processor, a Reduced Instruction Set Computer (RISC) processor, or an X64 processor. Examples of the programmable logic device 114-3 include a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), or a programmable array logic (PAL).

[0042] Processor 114-2 and programmable logic device 114-3 may share memory 120. Memory 120 may be allocated according to an operational mode. As mentioned above, when control logic 114 is configured according to an operational mode, part of that configuration may include allocating memory between processor 114-2 and programmable logic device 114-3. Portions of memory 120 may be shared between processor 114-2 and programmable logic device 114-3.

[0043] In some embodiments, configuring the control logic 114 may include modifying software of the processor 114-2 of the control logic 114 based on the mode of operation. Specifically, the modified software may include portions related to data transmission through the adapter 104. Similarly, configuring the control logic 114 may include modifying the configuration of the programmable logic device 114-3 of the control logic 114 based on the mode of operation. For example, various cores, blocks, connections, etc. of the programmable logic device 114-3 may be modified based on the mode of operation. The configuration modifications may include modifications related to data transmission through the adapter 104.

[0044] In some embodiments, reconfiguration of control logic 114 may involve changing software, firmware, or other configuration in both processor 114-2 and programmable logic device 114-3, but in other embodiments, software, firmware, or other configuration associated with only one of processor 114-2 and programmable logic device 114-3 may be changed when changing to a new operating mode.

[0045] 6 is a flowchart for configuring an X-ray detector with a memory configured to store multiple configuration data sets, according to some embodiments. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 6, in some embodiments, operation may be similar to that of FIG. 4. However, at 403, a configuration data set associated with a first operating mode is selected from multiple configuration data sets stored in memory 120 within housing 110 of X-ray detector 102. At 409, control logic 114 is configured using the selected configuration data set. Thus, modular X-ray detector 102' may be pre-configured with multiple configuration data sets for multiple operating modes. One configuration data set may be selected and loaded as desired from the sets stored in memory 120.

[0046] FIG. 7 is a flowchart for configuring the X-ray detector of FIG. 1 according to some embodiments. 1 and 7, in some embodiments, operation may be similar to that of Figures 4 and 6. However, at 404, a configuration data set associated with a first operational mode is selected from among a plurality of configuration data sets stored in a memory external to the X-ray detector 102. For example, the configuration data set may be stored in the computer 106 external to the X-ray detector 102.

[0047] At 407, the selected data set is transmitted to the X-ray detector 102. In some embodiments, the configuration data set is transmitted via the adapter 104. In other embodiments, the configuration data set may be transmitted via an alternative interface 109. At 409, the control logic 114 is configured using the selected configuration data set.

[0048] 8 is a flowchart for configuring an X-ray detector with configuration data based on an adapter, according to some embodiments. With reference to FIGS. 1 and 8, operation may be similar to that of FIG. 4. In some embodiments, at 401, configuration data is read from adapter 104 using control logic 114. At 405, a first operating mode is selected from among the operating modes of the X-ray detector by selecting a first operating mode based on the configuration data.

[0049] 9 is a block diagram of an X-ray imaging system, according to some embodiments. The X-ray imaging system 900 includes an X-ray source 902 and a detector 910. The detector 910 may include the modular detector 102' described above, or the like. The X-ray source 902 is positioned relative to the detector 910 such that X-rays 920 are generated, pass through an object 922, and can be detected by the detector 910. In some embodiments, the detector 910 is part of a medical imaging system. In other embodiments, the X-ray imaging system 900 may include a portable vehicle scanning system as part of a cargo scanning system. The system 900 may be any system that may include an X-ray detector.

[0050] The X-ray detector comprises a housing 110, a sensor array 112 disposed within the housing 110 and configured to generate image data in response to incident X-rays, control logic 114 disposed within the housing 110, a connector interface 108 integrated with the housing 110, and an adapter 104 removably connectable to the connector interface 108, wherein the control logic 114 is configurable to operate in a plurality of operating modes, and in a first one of the operating modes, the control logic 114 is configured to process the image data and / or transmit the image data via the adapter 104 differently than in a second one of the operating modes.

[0051] In some embodiments, when in a first mode of operation, the control logic 114 is configured to transmit image data using a first protocol, the first protocol being different from a second protocol used to transmit image data in a second mode of operation.

[0052] In some embodiments, the x-ray detector further comprises a memory 120 configured to store a plurality of configuration data sets, each of the operational modes being associated with a corresponding one of the configuration data sets.

[0053] In some embodiments, memory 120 is further configured to store an indication of a current one of the operating modes, and control logic 114 is configured to select a configuration data set based on the indication of the current operating mode and operate in the current operating mode using the selected configuration data set.

[0054] In some embodiments, the control logic 114 is configured to select one of the operating modes and an associated configuration data set based on the adapter 104 and to operate in the selected one of the operating modes using the associated configuration data set.

[0055] In some embodiments, the first mode of operation is a CoaXPress mode and the second mode of operation is an Ethernet mode.

[0056] In some embodiments, the connector interface 108 is a standardized connector interface 108 .

[0057] In some embodiments, the control logic 114 and connector interface 108 are configured to transmit data at a data rate equal to or greater than the maximum data rate in the operating mode.

[0058] In some embodiments, the control logic 114 further comprises a processor and a programmable logic device, and the control logic 114 is further configured to perform at least one of modifying software of the processor of the control logic 114 related to data transmission through the adapter 104 based on the first operating mode, and modifying a configuration of the programmable logic device of the control logic 114 related to data transmission through the adapter 104 based on the first operating mode.

[0059] The method includes receiving an X-ray detector having a housing 110, a sensor array 112 disposed within the housing 110 and configured to generate image data in response to incident X-rays, control logic 114 disposed within the housing 110, and a connector interface 108 integrated with the housing 110, selecting a first operating mode from among a plurality of operating modes of the X-ray detector, configuring the control logic 114 according to the first operating mode, selecting a first adapter 104 associated with the first operating mode, and installing the first adapter 104 in the connector interface 108.

[0060] In some embodiments, the method further includes, after configuring the control logic 114 according to the first operating mode, selecting a second operating mode from among the operating modes of the X-ray detector, the second operating mode being different from the first operating mode, and configuring the control logic 114 according to the second operating mode.

[0061] In some embodiments, the method further includes selecting a second adapter 104 associated with the second operating mode, the second adapter 104 being different from the first adapter 104, and installing the second adapter 104 in the connector interface 108.

[0062] In some embodiments, configuring the control logic 114 according to the first operating mode includes modifying software of a processor of the control logic 114 related to data transmission through the first adapter 104 based on the first operating mode.

[0063] In some embodiments, configuring the control logic 114 according to the first operating mode includes changing a configuration of a programmable logic device of the control logic 114 associated with transmitting data through the first adapter 104 based on the first operating mode.

[0064] In some embodiments, configuring the control logic 114 according to the first operating mode includes selecting a configuration data set associated with the first operating mode from among a plurality of configuration data sets stored in memory 120 within the X-ray detector housing 110, and configuring the control logic 114 using the selected configuration data set.

[0065] In some embodiments, configuring the control logic 114 according to the first operating mode includes selecting a configuration data set associated with the first operating mode from among a plurality of configuration data sets stored in a memory 120 external to the X-ray detector, transmitting the selected configuration data set to the X-ray detector, and configuring the control logic 114 using the selected configuration data set.

[0066] In some embodiments, the operating modes include a second operating mode, the first operating mode involving higher latency than the second operating mode, and the first operating mode involving higher reliability than the second operating mode.

[0067] In some embodiments, configuring the control logic 114 according to the first operating mode includes reading configuration data from the adapter 104 using the control logic 114, and selecting the first operating mode from among the operating modes of the X-ray detector includes selecting the first operating mode based on the configuration data.

[0068] The X-ray detector comprises means for converting incident X-rays into image data, means for converting a first connector interface into a second connector interface, means for controlling transmission of the image data via the means for converting the first connector interface into the second connector interface, means for selecting a first operating mode from among a plurality of operating modes of the X-ray detector, and means for configuring the means for controlling transmission of the image data via the means for converting the first connector interface into the second connector interface according to the first operating mode.

[0069] An example of the means for converting incident X-rays into image data is the sensor array 112. An example of the means for converting a first connector interface into a second connector interface is the adapter 104. An example of the means for controlling the transmission of image data via the means for converting the first connector interface into the second connector interface is the control logic 114 configured as described above. An example of the means for selecting a first operating mode from among a plurality of operating modes of the X-ray detector is the control logic 114 configured as described above. An example of the means for configuring the means for controlling the transmission of image data via the means for converting the first connector interface into the second connector interface according to the first operating mode is the control logic 114, the memory 120, or the computer 106.

[0070] In some embodiments, the X-ray detector further comprises means for storing a plurality of configuration data sets associated with the operational modes, such as memory 120 or computer 106.

[0071] While structures, devices, methods, and systems have been described in accordance with specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that many variations of the specific embodiments are possible, and thus, any variations should be considered within the spirit and scope of the disclosure herein. Accordingly, many modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

[0072] The claims following this written disclosure are expressly incorporated into this written disclosure, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment. The disclosure includes all variations of the independent claims and their dependent claims. Furthermore, further embodiments that can be derived from the following independent and dependent claims are also expressly incorporated into this written description. These further embodiments are identified by replacing the dependency of a given dependent claim with the phrase "any of claims [x] through the claim immediately preceding this claim," where the bracketed term "[x]" is replaced with the number of the most recently written independent claim. For example, in the first set of claims starting with independent claim 1, claim 4 may depend on either claims 1 and 3, resulting in two different embodiments due to these separate dependencies; claim 5 may depend on any one of claims 1, 3, or 4, resulting in three different embodiments due to these separate dependencies; claim 6 may depend on any one of claims 1, 3, 4, or 5, resulting in four different embodiments, and so on.

[0073] The use of the term "first" in a claim with reference to a feature or element does not necessarily imply the presence of a second or additional such feature or element. The presence of elements specifically recited in means-plus-function form is intended to be construed to cover the corresponding structure, material, or acts described herein, and equivalents thereof, pursuant to 35 U.S.C. §112(f). The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive right or privilege is claimed are defined below.

Claims

1. The housing and a sensor array disposed within the housing and configured to generate image data in response to incident x-rays; control logic disposed within the housing; a connector interface integrated with the housing; a first adapter removably connectable to the connector interface; An X-ray detector comprising: the control logic is configurable to operate in multiple modes of operation; In a first mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation, the control logic is configured to process the image data and transmit the image data via the first adapter; In a second mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation, the control logic is configured to process the image data and transmit the image data via the first adapter or a second adapter in a manner different from that in the first mode of operation, the second adapter being removably connectable to the connector interface; In the first mode of operation, the control logic is configured to transmit the image data using a first protocol, the first protocol being different from a second protocol used to transmit the image data in the second mode of operation. X-ray detector.

2. A housing, a sensor array disposed within the housing and configured to generate image data in response to incident x-rays; control logic disposed within the housing; a connector interface integrated with the housing; an adapter removably connectable to the connector interface; An X-ray detector comprising: the control logic is configurable to operate in multiple modes of operation; In a first mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation, the control logic is configured to process the image data and / or transmit the image data through the adapter in a different manner than in a second mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation; In the first mode of operation, the control logic is configured to transmit the image data using a first protocol, the first protocol being different from a second protocol used to transmit the image data in the second mode of operation; the control logic further comprises a processor and a programmable logic device; The control logic further comprises: modifying the processor software of the control logic associated with transmitting data through the adapter based on the first mode of operation; modifying a configuration of the programmable logic device of the control logic associated with transmitting data through the adapter based on the first mode of operation; configured to perform at least one of X-ray detector.

3. a memory configured to store a plurality of configuration data sets; Furthermore, each of the plurality of operational modes is associated with a corresponding one of the plurality of configuration data sets; 3. The X-ray detector according to claim 1.

4. A memory configured to store a plurality of configuration data sets. Furthermore, each of the plurality of operational modes is associated with a corresponding one of the plurality of configuration data sets; The control logic selecting an operational mode of the plurality of operational modes and the associated set of configuration data based on the first adapter; operating in the selected one of the plurality of operational modes using the associated set of configuration data; configured to perform 2. The X-ray detector according to claim 1.

5. The connector interface is a standardized connector interface.

3. The X-ray detector according to claim 1.

6. the control logic and the connector interface are configured to transmit data at a data rate equal to or greater than a maximum data rate among the plurality of operating modes; 3. The X-ray detector according to claim 1.

7. A housing, a sensor array disposed within the housing and configured to generate image data in response to incident x-rays; control logic disposed within the housing; a connector interface integrated with the housing; an adapter removably connectable to the connector interface; a memory configured to store a plurality of configuration data sets; An X-ray detector comprising: the control logic is configurable to operate in multiple modes of operation; In a first mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation, the control logic is configured to process the image data and / or transmit the image data through the adapter in a different manner than in a second mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation; In the first mode of operation, the control logic is configured to transmit the image data using a first protocol, the first protocol being different from a second protocol used to transmit the image data in the second mode of operation; each of the plurality of operational modes is associated with a corresponding one of the plurality of configuration data sets; the memory is further configured to store an indication of a current operating mode of the plurality of operating modes; The control logic selecting a configuration data set based on the indication of the current operating mode; operating in the current operating mode using the selected configuration data set; configured to perform X-ray detector.

8. A housing, a sensor array disposed within the housing and configured to generate image data in response to incident x-rays; control logic disposed within the housing; a connector interface integrated with the housing; an adapter removably connectable to the connector interface; An X-ray detector comprising: the control logic is configurable to operate in multiple modes of operation; In a CoaXPress mode of the plurality of operational modes, the control logic is configured to process the image data and / or transmit the image data through the adapter in a different manner than in an Ethernet mode of the plurality of operational modes; In the CoaXPress mode, the control logic is configured to transmit the image data using a first protocol, the first protocol being different from a second protocol used to transmit the image data in the Ethernet mode. X-ray detector.

9. The housing and a sensor array disposed within the housing and configured to generate image data in response to incident x-rays; control logic disposed within the housing; a connector interface integrated with the housing; receiving an X-ray detector comprising: selecting a first mode of operation from among a plurality of modes of operation of the x-ray detector; configuring the control logic according to the first operating mode by modifying software of a processor or a programmable logic device configuration of the control logic associated with transmitting data through a first adapter based on the first operating mode; selecting the first adapter associated with the first mode of operation; installing the first adapter into the connector interface; A method comprising:

10. A housing; a sensor array disposed within the housing and configured to generate image data in response to incident x-rays; control logic disposed within the housing; a connector interface integrated with the housing; receiving an X-ray detector comprising: selecting a first mode of operation from among a plurality of modes of operation of the x-ray detector; configuring the control logic in accordance with the first mode of operation; selecting a first adapter associated with the first mode of operation; installing the first adapter into the connector interface; Including, configuring the control logic according to the first operating mode includes using the control logic to read configuration data from the first adapter; The method, wherein selecting the first operational mode from among the plurality of operational modes of the x-ray detector includes selecting the first operational mode based on the configuration data.

11. After configuring the control logic according to the first mode of operation, selecting a second mode of operation from among the plurality of modes of operation of the X-ray detector, the second mode of operation being different from the first mode of operation; configuring the control logic in accordance with the second mode of operation; 11. The method of claim 9 or 10, further comprising:

12. Configuring the control logic in accordance with the first mode of operation includes: modifying the software of the processor of the control logic associated with the data transmission through the first adapter based on the first operating mode; 10. The method of claim 9, comprising:

13. Configuring the control logic in accordance with the first mode of operation includes: modifying the configuration of the programmable logic device of the control logic associated with transmitting data through the first adapter based on the first mode of operation; 10. The method of claim 9, comprising:

14. Configuring the control logic in accordance with the first mode of operation includes: selecting a configuration data set associated with the first mode of operation from among a plurality of configuration data sets stored in a memory within the housing of the x-ray detector; configuring the control logic using the selected configuration data set; 11. The method of claim 9 or 10, comprising:

15. Configuring the control logic in accordance with the first mode of operation includes: selecting a configuration data set associated with the first mode of operation from among a plurality of configuration data sets stored in a memory external to the x-ray detector; transmitting the selected configuration data set to the x-ray detector; configuring the control logic using the selected configuration data set; 11. The method of claim 9 or 10, comprising:

16. A housing; a sensor array disposed within the housing and configured to generate image data in response to incident x-rays; control logic disposed within the housing; a connector interface integrated with the housing; receiving an X-ray detector comprising: selecting a first mode of operation from among a plurality of modes of operation of the x-ray detector; configuring the control logic in accordance with the first mode of operation; selecting a first adapter associated with the first mode of operation; installing the first adapter into the connector interface; After configuring the control logic according to the first mode of operation, selecting a second mode of operation from among the plurality of modes of operation of the X-ray detector, the second mode of operation being different from the first mode of operation; configuring the control logic in accordance with the second mode of operation; selecting a second adapter associated with the second mode of operation, the second adapter being different from the first adapter; installing the second adapter into the connector interface; A method comprising:

17. A housing; a sensor array disposed within the housing and configured to generate image data in response to incident x-rays; control logic disposed within the housing; a connector interface integrated with the housing; receiving an X-ray detector comprising: selecting a first mode of operation from among a plurality of modes of operation of the x-ray detector; configuring the control logic in accordance with the first mode of operation; selecting a first adapter associated with the first mode of operation; installing the first adapter into the connector interface; Including, the plurality of operating modes includes a second operating mode; the first mode of operation involves a higher latency than the second mode of operation; The method, wherein the first mode of operation involves higher reliability than the second mode of operation.

18. means for converting incident x-rays into image data; means for converting the first connector interface to a second connector interface; means for controlling transmission of the image data through the means for converting the first connector interface to the second connector interface; means for selecting a first mode of operation from among a plurality of modes of operation of the X-ray detector; means for configuring the means for controlling the transmission of the image data through the means for converting the first connector interface to the second connector interface in accordance with the first mode of operation; Equipped with in the first mode of operation, the means for controlling transmission of the image data through the means for converting the first connector interface to the second connector interface is configured to transmit the image data using a first protocol, the first protocol being different from a second protocol used to transmit the image data in a second mode of operation of the plurality of modes of operation; X-ray detector.

19. means for storing a plurality of configuration data sets associated with said plurality of operational modes; 20. The x-ray detector of claim 18, further comprising:

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