SBIR-STTR Award

Techinical Abstract: A physically small, rugged, low power, light weight X-ray imaging sensor, readout, display and transmission system is proposed which will provide an effective means for X-ray screening in General Radiology, Radiology and Fluoroscopy, Angiograpgy and Cardiology for both commercial and military applications. The system will consist of a novel flat panel R-ray detector, a high speed image processor, a high contrast flat panel display, a simple user input device, and a port for sending the standard DICOM 3.0 formatted images to a wireless or wired network. This avoids the use of fragile technologies including image intensifer tubes, camera pickup tubes and cathode ray tube displays. Phase I concentrates on demonstrating that the proposed flat panel detector delivers unprecedented detective quantum efficiency and superior spatial resolution compared to all other techniques presently available or known to be in development. Other benefits, include a compact flat form factor, large sensing area (ultimately up to 14" x 17" or larger) and utility for both real time flouoroscopy and diagnostic still imaging. When combined with the compact, real-time processor and our rugged, high contrast, low power display, the resulting system will be optimized for deployment in a front line military environment with local display as well as digital transmission capabilties to take full benefit of teleradiology. Anticipated Military Benefits/Potential Commercial Applications of the Research or Development: Such a rugged, portable system would permit the elimination of film processing and the resulting need to transport film hardcopy units and transport and dispose of film chemicals. When combined with field deployable X-ray generators and tubes, full diagnostic imaging capabilities become practical in a battlefield environment. In a commercial setting, film replacement reduces patient costs, speeds patient throughput, eliminates chemicals and when digitally integrated into a hospital PACS.

Keywords:
X-Ray Imaging Detector; Diagnostic Imaging; Deployable; Flat

There is a critical need for low-power, non-invasive sensors for military and commercial applications. Existing sensors require excessive battery power, are unacceptably slow in response times, and are bulky. This program seeks to leap-frog these constraints with a technology that focuses on nano-precision engineering devices. During Phase I, NRC successfully demonstrated the proof-of-concept of such a sensor utilizing proprietary materials. The effort identified key design variables for device optimization and performance enhancements. The Phase I also identified direct and spinoff applications and identified a commercial partner. Phase II seeks to build on Phase I success, optimize. build prototypes, and field test the technology with lead customers. Phase II will also be NRC's foundation for Phase III commercialization. The technology proposed is needed for identifying, monitoring, and assisting the physiological health of a soldier before, during, and immediately after an injury. The technology integrates well with the envisioned LSTAT system and also provides the foundation for developing a monitor for chemical warfare agents. The technology can assist in saving lives and reduce the incidence of crippling injuries - both in the battlefield and in our day to day life. The technology can also help reduce our nation's health care costs by reducing the complications immediately after an injury. The technology is of relevance to pre-mature baby care, to industrial composition sensing applications, and consumer safety applications.

Keywords:
Biosensors Solid State Chemosensors Nanomaterials