Sequential X-Ray Detector Array for Resolution and Energy Discrimination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing x-ray imaging detectors face challenges such as low detection efficiency, especially for high-energy x-rays, limited spatial resolution, inability to discriminate between x-ray energies, and lack of angular information, particularly in high spatial resolution applications.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a scintillator and an optical lens system with a mirror configuration that allows x-rays to propagate through and reflect visible light non-parallel to the x-ray direction, combined with optical detectors, to enhance spatial resolution and detection efficiency, while maintaining angular information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a thin scintillator is used with an optical lens system to achieve high spatial resolution, then spatial resolution is improved, but x-ray detection efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the detection task into two segments: the first detector (with thin scintillator and optical lens) captures high spatial resolution information, while the second detector (without optical lens) captures high efficiency information. This segmentation allows each detector to be optimized for its specific function, resolving the contradiction between resolution and efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-detector approach to a multi-detector array approach, adding the dimension of detector quantity and arrangement. By placing multiple detectors at different positions and orientations, the system simultaneously achieves both high resolution and high efficiency through dimensional expansion.
2Measurement precision
If a scintillator screen with optical lens system is used, then spatial resolution can be improved, but the ability to discriminate between x-ray energies deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the detection functions: the first detector with optical lens provides high spatial resolution, while the second detector without optical lens preserves energy information. This functional segmentation ensures that neither resolution nor energy discrimination capability is compromised.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the capabilities of two different detector types into a single integrated system. By combining a detector with optical lens (high resolution) and a detector without optical lens (energy sensitive), the system achieves both high spatial resolution and energy discrimination capability simultaneously.
3Device complexity
If conventional single detector configurations are used, then device complexity is low, but the ability to provide angular information deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the detection function across multiple detectors positioned at different angles and locations. This segmentation allows each detector to capture specific angular information, and the combined data from all detectors provides comprehensive angular coverage without requiring each individual detector to be overly complex.
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
The system achieves high spatial resolution and efficient detection of x-rays, including high-energy x-rays, with improved ability to discriminate between x-ray energies and provide angular information.
Implementation Method 1
at least one scintillator configured to allow first x-rays of an x-ray beam incident on the at least one scintillator to propagate through the at least one scintillator and to generate visible light in response to second x-rays of the x-ray beam
Implementation Method 2
at least one optical lens system configured to allow propagation of at least a first portion of the first x-rays through the at least one optical lens system and to relay at least some of the visible light to an image plane of the at least one optical lens system
Implementation Method 3
at least one mirror configured to allow propagation of at least a second portion of the first portion of the first x-rays through the at least one mirror and to reflect at least some of the visible light from the at least one optical lens system in a direction non-parallel relative to an x-ray propagation direction
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a plurality of x-ray imaging detectors having at least a first x-ray imaging detector and a second x-ray imaging detector. The first and second x-ray imaging detectors are configured sequentially along an x-ray beam propagation direction.