Improved imaging performance of a 14"x17" direct radiography system using a Se/TFT detector

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Abstract
Progress is discussed on the improvement of a Direct RadiographyTM solid state, flat panel, digital detector designed for use in general radiographic applications. This detector, now known as DirectRayTM, operates on the principle of direct detection of X-ray photons with a selenium photoconductor and consists of 500 micrometer thick amorphous selenium coupled to an amorphous silicon thin-film-transistor (TFT) readout array. This device is fabricated with a 14 X 17-inch (35 X 43-cm) active imaging area, corresponding to 2560 X 3072 pixels having dimensions of 139 micrometer X 139 micrometer and a geometrical fill factor of 86%. Improvements include a TFT array design upgrade with reduced noise characteristic, lower-noise readout electronics, and improved interfaces. Clinical radiographic images are currently being generated with the DirectRay detector using an X-ray exposure level equivalent to that of a 400 speed screen- film combination while maintaining the superior spatial resolution that is inherent in the direct conversion method. An effective sensor restoration technique has been implemented that eliminates the potential for selenium memory artifacts after a high dose. New results on NPS, MTF, DQE and signal linearity are presented. Detectability of low contrast objects using FAXiL test objects as well as the results of clinical studies are discussed.

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