A multi-mode X-ray imager for medical and industrial applications

This paper describes a multi-mode, digital imager for real-time X-ray applications. The imager has three modes of operation: low dose fluoroscopy, zoom fluoroscopy, and high resolution radiography. These modes trade-off resolution or field-of-view for frame rate and additionally optimize the sensitivity of the imager to match the X-ray dose used in each mode. This large area sensing technology has a form factor similar to that of an X-ray film cassette, no geometric image distortion, no sensitivity to magnetic fields, a very large dynamic range which eliminates repeat shots due to over or under exposure, 12 bit digital output and the ability to switch between operating modes in real-time. Medical applications include fluoroscopy and radiography, while non-destructive test (NDT) applications might include solder joint verification on printed circuit boards and parts inspection in the automotive and aerospace industries.