Multi-Camera X-Ray Detector Array With Overlapping Fields
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional camera-based X-ray imaging systems suffer from poor image quality due to inefficient light collection and cross-talk, resulting in low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and detected quantum efficiency (DQE), as well as increased costs associated with large area semiconductor layers.
Innovation Solution
The use of a plurality of cameras arranged in an array with an energy conversion component and a refraction component to convert high energy radiation into lower energy radiation, which is then detected by the cameras, along with the implementation of CMOS cameras to reduce focal length and increase camera density, thereby improving light collection and reducing cross-talk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a large area semiconductor layer is used to detect X-ray photons directly, then the detection area and image quality are improved, but the manufacturing cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection system into multiple small-area semiconductor cameras arranged in an array, where each camera detects a portion of the X-ray image. This segmentation allows the use of inexpensive small cameras instead of one large expensive semiconductor layer, while maintaining comprehensive detection coverage through the array configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an energy conversion component (phosphor screen) as an intermediary between the X-ray photons and the semiconductor cameras. This phosphor screen converts high-energy X-ray photons into visible light photons, which can then be detected by the semiconductor cameras, enabling the use of smaller, less expensive detectors while maintaining detection capability.
2Loss of energy
If the energy conversion component is placed close to the cameras, then light collection efficiency is improved, but cross-talk between adjacent cameras increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using optical isolation structures (such as light shields or absorbing barriers) positioned between adjacent cameras in the array. These structures create localized optical boundaries that prevent light from spilling into neighboring camera fields of view, thereby reducing cross-talk while maintaining efficient light collection from the phosphor screen.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent addresses the proximity issue by introducing a third dimensional element - optical isolation structures that extend into the space between the phosphor screen and camera arrays. These structures create vertical or lateral barriers that prevent lateral light propagation between cameras, enabling close placement without excessive cross-talk.
3Reliability
If multiple cameras are arranged with overlapping fields of view, then image stitching and quality improvement are enabled, but the system complexity and data processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the data from multiple cameras with overlapping fields of view through image stitching algorithms. The overlapping regions allow for alignment and integration of images from different cameras, creating a unified, high-quality composite image that leverages the redundant information from multiple detectors while managing data integration systematically.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances image quality by increasing SNR and DQE, reducing costs, and allowing for more efficient light collection, while also enabling flexible imaging and improved image integrity.
Implementation Method 1
an energy converter layer is used to convert the high energy X-ray photons into a very high number of lower energy light photons (e.g., photons in the visible spectrum)
Implementation Method 2
at least one refraction component positioned between the energy conversion component and the plurality of cameras to refract at least some of the second radiation emitted by the energy conversion component onto corresponding cameras of the plurality of cameras
Implementation Method 3
These lower energy light photons may then be converted into electrical charge by a large matrix semiconductor device
Data Source
AI summary
According to some aspects, a device comprising a plurality of cameras arranged in an array, each of the plurality of cameras producing a signal indicative of radiation impinging on the respective camera, the plurality of cameras arranged such that the field of view of each of the plurality of cameras at least partially overlaps the field of view of at least one adjacent camera of the plurality of cameras, to form a respective plurality of overlap regions, an energy conversion component for converting first radiation impinging on a surface of the energy conversion component to second radiation at a lower energy that is detectable by the plurality of cameras, and at least one computer for processing the signals from each of the plurality cameras to generate at least one image, the at least one processor configured to combine signals in the plurality of overlap regions to form the at least one image is provided.