JP7547643B2 - Radiation detector for a scanning system and related scanning system - Google Patents

Description

Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to radiation detectors for scanning systems. More specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to radiation detectors that include an arc portion having a first side configured to carry a detector module for detecting incident radiation and a second side in thermal communication with one or more heat transfer devices for maintaining a temperature of the detector module.

For example, radiological imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) systems and/or positron emission tomography (PET) are useful for providing information or images of the internal aspects of an object under examination. In a transmission imaging modality such as CT, the object is exposed to radiation containing photons (e.g., but not limited to, X-rays, gamma rays, etc.) and an image is formed based on the radiation absorbed and/or attenuated by the internal aspects of the object, or rather on the number of radiation photons that can pass through the object. In general, denser aspects of an object absorb and/or attenuate more radiation than less dense aspects, and thus, for example, features with higher density, such as bone or metal, will be evident when surrounded by less dense features, such as muscle or clothing. Emission imaging modalities, such as SPECT and PET, produce images based on radiation emitted from radioactive tracers that provide functional information of the subject.

Radiation photons passing through the object impinge on the surface of one or more detector elements of the detector array (logically referred to as "detector cells"), which typically generate an electric charge directly or indirectly in response to the impinging radiation photons. The detector array typically comprises a number of detector cells, each configured to convert detected radiation into an electrical signal. The magnitude of attenuation by the object in the examination region is inversely proportional to the amount or rate of electric charge generated by the detector element. Based on the number of radiation photons detected by each detector cell and/or the electric charge generated by each detector cell during sampling, an image can be reconstructed indicative of the density, z-effective (also referred to as effective atomic number), shape and/or other properties and/or aspects of the object.

The number of detector cells in a detector array may be application specific. For example, in some computed tomography applications, a typical number of detector cells may range from about 16,000 to about 320,000, depending on the degree of desired coverage of the computed tomography system.

In use and operation, typical detector cells and electronic boards associated with such detector cells known to the inventors of the present disclosure generate heat. Detector cells and detector cell arrays of conventional detector arrays are typically cooled individually by airflow and are susceptible to temperature changes caused by changes in airflow when the radiological scanner changes rotational speed. Inadequate temperature control of the detector cells can contribute to artifacts and other noise in images produced by the radiological imaging system, for example. In addition, due to the rotation of the radiological imaging system, conventional detector cells are subjected to significant mechanical stresses during use and operation, undergoing bending or other deflection. The bending and deflection of the detector cells can reduce the quality and accuracy of images produced by the radiological imaging system. Other disadvantages of typical detector cells known to the inventors of the present disclosure include the difficulty of locating and aligning the detector cells, as well as access for detector cell replacement when one or more detector cells fail.

Embodiments disclosed herein relate to a radiation detector including an arc portion having a first side configured to carry a detector module for detecting incident radiation and a second side in thermal communication with one or more heat transfer devices for maintaining a temperature of the detector module. For example, according to one embodiment, a radiation scanning system includes a radiation detector configured to receive at least a portion of the radiation, the radiation detector including an arc portion having a plurality of facets on a side thereof, a detector module coupled to each facet, the detector module including a base portion having a first substantially planar surface in contact with the respective facet, a detector unit coupled to a second substantially planar surface of the base portion, the second substantially planar surface being parallel to the first substantially planar surface, and a heat exchanger for removing heat from the arc portion, the heat exchanger being in thermal communication with a side of the arc portion opposite the plurality of facets.

According to an additional embodiment, a radiation detector for a radiation imaging system comprises a support structure including a base portion and an arc portion spaced from the base portion, the arc portion including a first surface including a plurality of facets facing a center of a circular shape at least partially defined by the arc portion, and a second surface opposite the first surface. The radiation detector further comprises a cooling structure located at least partially between the base portion and the arc portion, and a detector module coupled to each facet of the plurality of facets, each facet being in direct thermal communication with a respective detector module, each detector module including a detector unit.

Further embodiments include a radiation system comprising a radiation detector, a plurality of detector modules arranged on an arc portion of a cradle configured to rotate about a detection region, each detector module comprising a detector unit having a main surface that is generally perpendicular to a line extending from the main surface to a center of a circle at least partially defined by the arc portion, and a cooling structure on a side of the arc portion opposite the plurality of detector modules and configured to transfer heat from the arc portion.

According to yet an additional embodiment, a radiation scanning system includes a rotor, a radiation source coupled to the rotor, and a radiation detector coupled to the rotor opposite the radiation source. The radiation detector includes an arc portion including a plurality of facets on a first side thereof, a detector module coupled to each facet of the plurality of facets, and a cooling structure in thermal communication with a second side of the arc portion.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a scanning system for performing transmission radiation-based scanning in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. 1 is a simplified perspective view of a radiation detector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2B is a simplified front view of the radiation detector of FIG. 2A. FIG. 2B is a simplified top view of the radiation detector of FIG. 2A. 2C is a simplified cross-sectional view of the radiation detector taken through section line DD of FIG. 2B. FIG. 2B is a simplified front view of the radiation detector of FIG. 2A, including a front cover. FIG. 2B is a simplified perspective view of the radiation detector of FIG. 2A, including a top cover. FIG. 2 is a simplified perspective view of a detector module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a simplified perspective view of a detector unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a simplified perspective view of a detector unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 1 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a radiation detector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 1 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a radiation detector according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. 1 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a radiation detector according to an additional embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a scanning system for performing emitted radiation-based scanning in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The drawings presented in this disclosure are not meant to be actual illustrations of any particular scanning system for performing radiation-based (e.g., computed tomography (CT)) scanning, or components thereof, but merely idealized representations used to explain example embodiments. Thus, the drawings are not necessarily to scale.

The following description provides specific details, such as material types, material thicknesses, and processing techniques, to provide a complete description of the embodiments described herein. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. Indeed, the embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced in conjunction with conventional manufacturing techniques used in the industry. In addition, the description provided below does not form a complete apparatus or system for a scanning system including a detector array with a cradle. Only the process operations and structures necessary to understand the embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below. Also, please note that any drawings accompanying this application are for illustrative purposes only and therefore are not drawn to scale. In addition, elements common between the drawings may have the same numerical designations.

The disclosed embodiments generally relate to a scanning system configured to inspect translated objects using radiation-based scanning, which may reduce artifacts and other noise in images generated with the scanning system. More specifically, disclosed are embodiments of a scanning system configured to control the temperature of a detector module of a radiation detector of the scanning system and provide structural support to the detector module during use and operation to reduce artifacts in generated images. In addition, the scanning systems disclosed herein may facilitate precise location and alignment of the detector module relative to other components of the scanning system, and may facilitate maintainability of the scanning system (e.g., by facilitating replacement of the detector module).

Terms used in this disclosure and particularly in the appended claims (e.g., the body of the appended claims) are generally intended as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including, but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "including, but not limited to," etc.). As used herein, "each" means some or all. As used herein, "each and every" means all.

In addition, if a particular number of claim recitations to be introduced is intended, such intent will be explicitly stated in the claim, and in the absence of such a statement, no such intent exists. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may include the use of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation with the indefinite article "a" or "an" limits any particular claim that includes such an introduced claim recitation to an embodiment that includes only one such recitation, even if the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and an indefinite article such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or "an" should be construed to mean "at least one" or "one or more"), and the same is true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations.

In addition, even if a particular number of recitations in an introduced claim is explicitly recited, one skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., an explicit recitation of "two recitations" without other modifiers means at least two recitations, or more than two recitations). Furthermore, when a convention similar to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." or "one or more of A, B, and C, etc." is used, such a configuration is generally intended to include only A, only B, only C, both A and B, both A and C, both B and C, or both A, B, and C, etc.

Furthermore, any disjunctive word or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibility of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" should be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B."

As used herein, the terms "substantially" and "about" with respect to a given parameter, characteristic, or condition mean and include, to the extent that one of ordinary skill in the art would understand, that the given parameter, characteristic, or condition is met to some degree of variance, such as within acceptable manufacturing tolerances. For example, a parameter that is "substantially" or "about" a particular value may be at least about 90% of the particular value, at least about 95% of the particular value, at least about 99% of the particular value, or at least about 99.9% of the particular value.

As used herein, spatially relative terms such as "upper," "lower," "bottom," and "top" are for ease of description in identifying the relationship of one element to another element as shown in the figures. Unless otherwise specified, spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of materials in addition to the orientation shown in the figures. Thus, the term "upper" can encompass elements above, below, to the left, or to the right of other elements, depending on the device orientation. Materials may be oriented differently (including, but not limited to, rotated 90 degrees, flipped), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein may be interpreted accordingly.

In this specification, the term "coupled" and its derivatives may be used to indicate that two elements cooperate or interact with one another. When an element is described as being "coupled" to another element, the elements may be in direct physical or electrical contact, or there may be intervening elements or layers. In contrast, when an element is described as being "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intervening elements or layers. The terms "on" and "connected" may be used interchangeably with the term "coupled" in this description and have the same meaning unless expressly indicated otherwise or the context indicates otherwise to one of ordinary skill in the art.

As used herein, "arc" means a circular arc or a portion of a circular arc.

According to embodiments described herein, a scanning system (e.g., imaging system, radiation imaging system, radiation scanning system) includes a gantry including a radiation source and a radiation detector including a detector array, the detector array configured to observe (e.g., without limitation, measure, detect) radiation photons that pass through and impinge on an object located in an examination region defined between the radiation source and the radiation detector. The radiation detector includes a detector array including a support structure configured to be operably coupled to the gantry. The support structure may include an arc portion configured to carry a plurality of detector modules. The arc portion may be sized and shaped to span substantially the entire length of the support structure and the detector array carried thereby. The arc portion may include a plurality of facets, each facet including a surface, and each surface is arranged to be oriented at an angle substantially perpendicular to the radiation path (e.g., without limitation, an imaginary line between the radiation source and the surface of the facet) of at least a portion of the incident radiation. Each facet may be coupled with a detector module including one or more detector units (e.g., but not limited to, detector tiles) on a surface of each respective facet, the surface of each facet facing inwardly toward the radiation source. In other words, each facet may include a surface oriented toward the radiation source to receive radiation from the radiation source at an incidence angle of about 90 degrees. The surface of each facet may be configured to receive the detector units. The detector module may include a base structure on which the one or more detector units are supported. The detector module (e.g., the base structure of the detector module) may be substantially completely supported by the facet. In other words, substantially all of the surface of a single detector module may contact a surface of a single one of the facets such that any portion of the surface of the detector module in contact with the facet is not supported by the facet (e.g., but not limited to, the detector module does not include unsupported portions that extend between different portions of the facet without contacting the surface of the facet). Because substantially all of the disclosed detector modules are supported by the facets, during operation of the radiation system (e.g., but not limited to, rotation of the gantry), the detector modules do not undergo bending or flexing as in conventional detector modules and radiation systems, or undergo insignificant bending or flexing, which may improve noise and/or artifact resistance in images generated by the scanning system (e.g., but not limited to, limiting noise or artifacts that may be caused by bending or flexing) and improve the quality of the images generated. In addition, the detector modules disclosed herein may be more easily accessed and replaced due to the location of the detector modules on the facets of the arc portion, as compared to replacement of detector modules in conventional scanning systems that may be attached to a support structure at an angle, such as 90°.

According to embodiments disclosed herein, the detector module may be in direct thermal contact with the facet. The facet may form a portion of the arc portion and may be located on a first side of the arc portion. The arc portion may define a thermal mass that extends substantially the entire length of the support structure carrying the detector module. One or more heater elements may be in thermal communication with the second side of the arc portion and may be configured to maintain the temperature of the arc portion at a desired temperature. In addition, the second side of the arc portion may be in thermal communication with one or more heat exchangers for removing heat from the arc portion. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger includes one or more of a cooling element, such as a cooling fin, a water cooler, or a chiller. In operation, the temperature exhibited by the detector module may be indirectly controlled through the arc portion, such as by contacting the second side of the arc portion with a heat exchanger. As a non-limiting example, the temperature of the detector module may be controlled through the arc portion rather than being directly heated or cooled by a respective heater element or cooling element. Controlling the temperature of the detector module through the arc portion may reduce temperature fluctuations within the detector module and increase the time constant of temperature change of the detector module relative to conventional scanning systems that are cooled by the passage of air during rotation of the rotor and detector module during operation. In other words, the rate of temperature change of the detector module coupled to the arc portion during operation of the scanning system may be substantially smaller than the detector module of a conventional scanning system. The increased temperature stability of the detector module of the scanning system may reduce measurement errors due to temperature changes and improve the quality of images generated from the scanning system.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a scanning system 100 for performing transmission radiation-based (e.g., CT) scanning, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Techniques according to the present disclosure may find applicability to other systems, including, for example, CT systems, diffraction systems, and/or radiation detector systems. The scanning system 100 may be configured to inspect one or more objects 102 (e.g., without limitation, a human subject, a set of suitcases at an airport, cargo, parcels). The scanning system 100 may include, for example, a stator 104 and a rotor 106 rotatable relative to the stator 104. During inspection, the object 102 may be located on a support 108, such as a bed, roller conveyor, or conveyor belt, that is selectively positioned within an inspection region 110 (e.g., a hollow portion within the rotor 106 where the object 102 is exposed to radiation 112), and the rotor 106 may be rotated around the object 102 by a motivator 115 (e.g., but not limited to, a motor, a drive shaft, a chain).

The rotor 106 may surround a portion of the examination region 110 and may be configured, for example, as a gantry supporting at least one radiation source 114 (e.g., but not limited to, an ionizing x-ray source, a gamma ray source) oriented to emit radiation toward the examination region 110, and at least one radiation detector 116 supported on a substantially opposite side of the examination region 110 relative to the radiation source 114 (which may be substantially opposite the rotor 106). During a contemplated inspection of the object 102 by the scanning system 100, the radiation source 114 emits a fan-shaped and/or cone-shaped radiation 112 configuration toward the examination region 110. The radiation 112 may be emitted, for example, at least substantially continuously or intermittently (e.g., a pulse of radiation 112 followed by a rest period during which the radiation source 114 is not activated).

As the emitted radiation 112 passes through the inspection region 110 and the object 102, the radiation 112 may be attenuated differently by different aspects of the object 102. Because different aspects attenuate the radiation 112 by different amounts (e.g., but not limited to, percentages), an image may be generated based on the attenuation or variation in the number of radiation photons detected by the radiation detector 116. As a non-limiting example, denser aspects of the object 102, such as inorganic materials, may attenuate more of the radiation 112 (e.g., cause fewer photons to be detected by the radiation detector 116) than less dense aspects, such as organic materials.

The radiation detector 116 may include, for example, many individual detector elements arranged in a pattern (e.g., a row or an array) on one or more detector assemblies (also called detector modules, detector modules, etc.) that are operatively connected to each other to form the radiation detector 116. In some embodiments, the detector elements may be configured to indirectly convert the detected radiation to an analog signal (e.g., using a scintillator array and a photodetector). In other embodiments, the detector elements are configured to directly convert the detected radiation to an analog signal. Additionally, the radiation detector 116 or its detector assemblies may include electronic circuitry, such as, for example, an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter, configured to filter the analog signal, digitize the analog signal, and/or otherwise process the analog and/or digital signal generated thereby. Digital signals output from the electronic circuitry may be communicated from the radiation detector 116 to a digital processing component configured to store data associated with the digital signal and/or further process the digital signal.

In some embodiments, the digital signal may be transmitted to an image generator 118 configured to generate image space data (also referred to as an image) from the digital signal using suitable analytical, iterative, and/or other reconstruction techniques (e.g., but not limited to, backprojection reconstruction, tomosynthesis reconstruction, iterative reconstruction). In this manner, the data may be transformed from the projection space to an image space, e.g., a domain that may be more understandable by a user 120 viewing the image. Such image space data may represent a two-dimensional representation of the object 102 and/or a three-dimensional representation of the object 102. In other embodiments, the digital signal may be transmitted to other digital processing components for processing, such as a threat analysis component 121.

The illustrated scanning system 100 may also include a terminal 122 (e.g., a workstation or other computing device) configured to receive images, which may be displayed to a user 120 (e.g., but not limited to, security personnel, medical personnel) on a monitor 124. In this manner, the user 120 may inspect the images to identify areas of interest within the object 102. The terminal 122 may also be configured to receive user input that may direct the operation of the scanning system 100 (e.g., but not limited to, the speed at which the support 108 moves, the activation of the radiation source 114), and may be connected to additional terminals 122 through a network (e.g., but not limited to, a local area network or the Internet).

The control system 126 may be coupled (e.g., operably coupled) to the terminal 122. The control system 126 may be configured to automatically control at least a portion of the operation of the scanning system 100. For example, the control system 126 may be configured to automatically and dynamically control, directly and/or indirectly, the speed at which the support 108 moves through the inspection region 110, the speed at which the rotor 106 rotates relative to the stator 104, the activation, deactivation, and power level (e.g., the intensity of radiation emitted by the radiation source 114) of the radiation source 114, or any combination or subcombination of these and/or other operating parameters. In some embodiments, the control system 126 may also accept manual override commands from the terminal 122 and issue commands to the scanning system 100 to modify the operating parameters of the scanning system 100 based on the manual override command. The control system 126 may be located proximal to the rest of the scanning system 100 (e.g., integrated in the same housing or room as the remaining components) or distal to the scanning system 100 (e.g., located in another room, such as an on-site control room, an off-site server location, a cloud storage system, etc.). The control system 126 may be dedicated to controlling a single scanning system 100 or may control multiple scanning systems 100 in an operational group or subgroup.

2A is a simplified perspective view of a radiation detector 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As a non-limiting example, the radiation detector 200 can form all or a portion of the radiation detector 116 of FIG. 1. FIG. 2B is a simplified front view of the radiation detector 200, FIG. 2C is a simplified top view of the radiation detector 200, and FIG. 2D is a simplified cross-sectional view of the radiation detector 200 through section line D-D of FIG. 2B. FIG. 2E is a simplified front view of the radiation detector 200 with a front cover attached to a support structure, and FIG. 2F is a simplified perspective view of the radiation detector 200 with a top cover over the detector array, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The radiation detector 200 may also be referred to herein as a "detector measurement system" (DMS).

With reference to Figures 2A-2D, the radiation detector 200 may include a support structure 202 (sometimes referred to herein as a "saddle," "cradle," or "frame") that includes a base portion 204 and an arc portion 206 that is vertically above the base portion 204 and connected to the base portion 204 by a sidewall 208.

Each of the base portion 204, the arc portion 206, and the sidewall 208 may comprise a unitary body or element. Stated another way, the base portion 204, the arc portion 206, and the sidewall 208 may form an integral member. In other words, in some such embodiments, the base portion 204, the arc portion 206, and the sidewall 208 form a continuous structure. In some embodiments, the base portion 204, the arc portion 206, and the sidewall 208 are formed from and comprise the same material composition. In some embodiments, the support structure 202 comprises a metal that exhibits a relatively low density (compared to other metals), such as, for example, aluminum. However, the disclosure is not so limited, and the support structure 202 may comprise a material composition different from that described above. In addition, as a non-limiting example, non-unitary bodies or elements forming the structure of the support structure 202, such as portions that are joined using any suitable technique, do not go beyond the scope of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the support structure 202 (e.g., the base portion 204, the arc portion 206, and the sidewalls 208) comprises a material that exhibits shielding properties against the incident radiation 250. As a non-limiting example, in some embodiments, the support structure 202 comprises tungsten.

The support structure 202 may have a substantially arc shape, such as a circular shape. In some embodiments, the arc portion 206 has a substantially circular shape, such as a truncated circular shape. In other words, the arc portion 206 may have a substantially circular shape, but may not define a complete circle. In some embodiments, the center of the circular shape of the support structure 202 (and the arc portion 206) may correspond to the focus of the radiation (e.g., the radiation source 114 (FIG. 1)). In other words, the radiation source 114 may be located at the center of a circle defined in part by the support structure 202, including the arc portion 206. As described herein, in other embodiments, the support structure 202 has a different shape, such as a hexagon or partial hexagon, a portion having a truncated circular shape and other portions including a linear shape, or a U-shaped structure.

The arc portion 206 may extend along substantially the entire length of the support structure 202 (e.g., in the X direction). For example, the arc portion 206 may extend from one sidewall 208 to another sidewall 208 along the length of the support structure 202. As described herein, the arc portion 206 may be configured to carry a detector module 240 of the radiation detector 200.

The radiation detector 200 may include a backplate 210 configured to be removably attached to the support structure 202. In a particular non-limiting example shown in FIG. 2A, the backplate 210 may include openings 212 configured to receive one or more fasteners for coupling the backplate 210 of the radiation detector 200 to the rotor 106 (FIG. 1). The fasteners may include, by way of non-limiting example, bolts, screws, or other structures configured to attach (e.g., secure) the backplate 210 to the rotor 106. Thus, in some embodiments, the backplate 210 is a mounting element and is configured to join the support structure 202 of the radiation detector 200 to the rotor 106. In other words, the backplate 210 may include physical features, such as alignment elements, to facilitate suitable attachment of the radiation detector 200 to the rotor 106. The alignment elements may include, by way of non-limiting example, visual alignment elements to assist a user in properly orienting and aligning the backplate 210, the support structure 202, and the rotor 106, and matingly matching alignment elements to facilitate proper orientation and alignment. In some embodiments, the backplate 210 further comprises additional openings 214 configured to facilitate alignment of the backplate 210 relative to the rotor 106.

In some embodiments, the radiation detector 200 may include a base structure configured to be removably attached to a support structure 202, such as a base portion 204. The base structure may include a surface for receiving one or more electronic boards. As used herein, the term "electronic board" means electronic devices, including, but not limited to, integrated circuits (ICs), application specific integrated circuits, digital logic circuits, microcontrollers, microprocessors, and combinations thereof. The electronic devices of the electronic board may include, but are not limited to, several functional blocks for performing the disclosed embodiments or portions thereof, coupled by any suitable interconnects, such as printed circuit boards, flexible circuits, wiring harnesses, and combinations thereof.

The arc portion 206 may include facets 230 configured to receive one of the detector modules 240, as described herein. Each facet 230 may be configured to be coupled to a detector module 240. For clarity and ease of understanding, FIG. 2A shows only four facets 230 coupled to four detector modules 240 respectively. However, it will be understood that a detector module 240 may be coupled to each of the facets 230.

The facets 230 may be located on an upper surface (e.g., a first surface) of the arc portion 206 and may be spaced apart from one another by spaces 232 (FIG. 2C). The upper surface of the arc portion 206 that includes the facets 230 may be oriented such that the facets 230 face the center of a circle at least partially defined by the support structure 202 that includes the arc portion 206.

2A-2D show a particular number of facets 230 (36 in the particular non-limiting example shown), additional or fewer facets 230 are not beyond the scope of this disclosure. In some embodiments, the arc portion 206 includes fewer facets 230 (e.g., fewer than 30 facets 230, fewer than 26 facets 230, fewer than 22 facets 230, fewer than 18 facets 230, or fewer than 16 facets 230). In other embodiments, the support structure 202 includes a greater number of facets 230 (e.g., more than 40 facets 230, more than 50 facets 230, or even more than 60 facets 230).

Each facet 230 may include an opening 234 (FIG. 2C) configured to mount a detector module 240 to the respective facet 230. Each facet 230 may include a surface 236 configured to be coupled to (e.g., receive) a complementary (e.g., but not limited to, corresponding) surface of a corresponding detector module 240. In one or more embodiments, the surface 236 may be substantially planar, although non-planar surfaces 236 are not beyond the scope of this disclosure. In some embodiments, the surface 236 of each facet 230 is oriented such that its center is oriented substantially perpendicular to the intended radiation 250 from the radiation source 114 (FIG. 1). In some embodiments, the surface 236 may be oriented such that the surface 236 is substantially perpendicular to the path of the radiation 250 emitted from the radiation source 114. In other words, the surfaces 236 may be oriented to be approximately perpendicular to a line extending from each surface 236 to the center of a circle defined at least in part by the arc portion 206 of the support structure 202. In some embodiments, the surfaces 236 may be oriented relative to the radiation source such that the angle of incidence of at least some radiation photons impinging on the surfaces 236 is approximately 90 degrees. In some cases, the surfaces of the detector modules 240 attached to the facets 230 are oriented perpendicular to an imaginary line projected from the radiation source to the facet of interest (in some cases, but not limited to, using a specific location along the path along which radiation emitted from the radiation source propagates during inspection).

The surface 236 may be sized and shaped to receive and contact substantially all or a portion of the surface of the corresponding detector module 240 to provide structural support to the detector module 240 during use and operation of the scanning system 100 (FIG. 1) (e.g., during rotation of the rotor 106 (FIG. 1)). When coupled to the surface 236, the detector module 240 may be oriented to face the direction of radiation 250 from the radiation source 114 (FIG. 1). The surface 236 of the facet 230 may facilitate improved accuracy of the desired placement of the detector module 230 compared to conventional detector arrays that do not include the facet 230 or the arc portion 206. As a non-limiting example, a conventional detector array known to the inventors of the present disclosure may include a detector module that is attached to a detector array support structure (e.g., a cradle) using a mounting bracket or block that includes a major surface that is attached to the detector array support structure oriented at an angle (e.g., perpendicular) to a surface of the mounting bracket configured to receive the detector module. Such configurations typically require the manufacture of precision surfaces that are oriented at right angles to one another, which increases the likelihood of detector module misalignment relative to the detector array support structure and manufacturing/assembly costs. In addition, as described herein, the openings 234 in the facets 230 facilitate the maintenance of the radiation detector 200, such as the installation and removal of the detector modules 240 from the surface 236 of the facets 230, as compared to the installation and replacement of detector modules in conventional scanning systems.

The detector module 240 may be configured to generate an imaging signal indicative of the attenuation of the radiation 250 incident on the detector module 240. More specifically, the detector module 240 may be configured to indirectly convert (or directly convert) the detected radiation 250 into an analog or digital imaging signal. For example, a detector module 240 configured to indirectly convert radiation (e.g., but not limited to, the radiation 250) into an imaging signal may include a scintillator subassembly and a detector subassembly, as described herein. As a non-limiting example, a detector module 240 configured to directly convert radiation (e.g., but not limited to, the radiation 250) may include materials and/or circuitry adapted to generate an electric charge or a representation thereof in response to the radiation and an analog or digital signal indicative of the radiation. In some such embodiments, the detector module 240 may include a detector subassembly including, for example, but not limited to, cadmium zinc telluride (CZT) or another direct conversion material.

The sidewall 208 and the arc portion 206 of the support structure 202 may define a cavity 255 configured to at least partially receive one or more heat exchangers 245 (e.g., cooling structures) configured to thermally couple to the arc portion 206 to provide cooling of the detector module 240 through the arc portion 206. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger includes fins 252 (e.g., cooling fins) configured to exchange thermal energy with the surrounding environment by passing a fluid (e.g., air) across (e.g., adjacent to) the fins 252. Stated differently, the cavity 255 may be configured to be fluidly coupled to a fluid for heat exchange with the fins 252, as described herein. The cavity 255 may be at least partially defined by a lower surface (e.g., a second surface) of the arc portion 206. In some embodiments, the cavity 255 is sized and shaped to facilitate air flow through the cavity 255 and the fins 252 to transfer heat from the arc portion 206 through the fins 252. The cavity 255 may be in operative communication with a fan 290 (FIGS. 2D, 2E, 2F) configured to supply air to the cavity 255 to facilitate heat transfer from the fins 252.

The fins 252 may include a metal, such as, for example, copper, aluminum, or another material. In some embodiments, the fins 252 include the same material composition as the support structure 202. In some embodiments, the fins 252 include aluminum (e.g., an aluminum-containing material). In some embodiments, the fins 252 include a different material composition than the support structure 202. In some embodiments, the fins 252 are integral with the support structure 202, for example, extending from a surface of the base portion 204 to a lower surface of the arc portion 206. In other embodiments, the fins 252 are configured to be removably coupled to the support structure 202. For example, the fins 252 may be removable from within the cavity 255 and may be removed from the support structure 202.

The fins 252 may be in direct thermal and physical contact with at least a portion of the arc portion 206. In some embodiments, the fins 252 are in direct contact with the underside of the arc portion 206. As described above, the arc portion 206 may be configured to facilitate heat transfer (e.g., heat transfer) between the detector module 240 and the external environment (e.g., air circulating through the fins 252). The fins 252 may be sized, shaped, and spaced to facilitate a desired amount of heat transfer (e.g., heat transfer) from the arc portion 206 to the external environment.

2A and 2D, the radiation detector 200 may further include one or more heater elements configured to provide heat to the arc portion 206. For example, the front surface of the radiation detector 200 may include a heater element 260a (FIGS. 2A, 2D) and the back surface of the radiation detector 200 may include a heater element 260b (FIG. 2D), collectively referred to herein as the heater element 260. The heater element 260a in FIG. 2A is shown in dashed lines to indicate that the heater element is located below the arc portion 206 (e.g., between the arc portion 206 and the fins 252). In some embodiments, heat from the heater element 260 is transferred through the arc portion 206 through the respective facets 230 to the detector module 240. In some embodiments, the heater element 260 may be configured to maintain the temperature of the arc portion 206 at a substantially uniform temperature. In some embodiments, the heater element 260 is configured to maintain the temperature of the facet 230 and the detector module 240 above room temperature (e.g., above about 20° C., above about 25° C.).

Heater elements 260 may be located, for example, in front of or behind facet 230 (e.g., in the Z direction). For example, heater element 260a may be located in front of facet 230 and heater element 260b may be located behind facet 230. In some embodiments, heater element 260 may extend along substantially the entire length of arc portion 206 (e.g., in the X direction).

Each of the heater elements 260 may include, for example, a resistive heater. For example, each of the heater elements 260 may include a strip heater, a ribbon heater, a cartridge heater, a tubular heater, a band heater, a wire element heater, an open coil heater, a flexible heater, or another type of heating element. The heater elements 260 may include, for example, but are not limited to, a nickel alloy (e.g., NiCr, FeCrAl, CuNi), a molybdenum alloy, a stainless steel alloy, a tungsten alloy, a ceramic material (e.g., _MoSi2 , SiC, graphite), or another material.

The radiation detector 200 may include one or more temperature sensors 262 to provide an indication of the temperature of one or more portions of the radiation detector 200. The temperature sensors 262 may be positioned to measure the temperature of one or more portions of the radiation detector 200, such as the temperature of or proximate to the facet 230. In some embodiments, the temperature sensors 262 are located within a cavity formed within the facet 230 or within the arc portion 206.

The detector module 240, which is in direct physical and thermal contact with the facet 230, may be heated and cooled by the facet 230, which is in thermal contact with the heating element 260 and the heat exchanger 245 (e.g., the fins 252). Thus, the temperature of the arc portion 206 may be controlled by the heater element 260 and the fins 252. In some embodiments, the temperature of the detector module 240 is indirectly controlled by heat transfer between the detector module 240 and the facet 230. Thus, the arc portion 206, which includes the facet 230 to which the detector module 240 is directly coupled, facilitates improved temperature control of the detector module 240 and the radiation detector 200.

The temperature of the radiation detector 200 (e.g., one or more of the detector module 240, the support structure 202, the facet 230, and the arc portion 206) may be controlled using a temperature control system. For example, one or more of the temperature sensors 262 may be electrically coupled to a controller. The controller may be operably coupled to one or more fans 290 for directing air through the volume and across the fins 252, and may be operably coupled to one or more of the heater elements 260. The fans 290 and the heater elements 260 may be in electrical communication with the controller through one or more electronic boards. The controller may be configured to control the temperature of the detector module 240 by adjusting one or both of the flow of air through the fins 252 and the power to the resistive heater 260 via one or more control signals (not shown). In one or more embodiments, the temperature may be controlled in response to a control loop of the controller implementing a control algorithm or control law known to those skilled in the art.

2A and 2E, in use and operation, the radiation detector 200 may include a cover 292 configured to be coupled to the support structure 202. The cover 292 may be configured to surround the cavity 255 such that, in use and operation, air flow through the cavity 255 and across the fins 252 is independent of the rotational speed of the radiation detector 200. In some embodiments, the fan 290 is coupled to the cover 292. In some embodiments, the support structure 202 includes openings 294 for receiving fasteners to couple the cover 292 to the support structure 202.

Referring to FIG. 2F, in some embodiments, the radiation detector 200 includes a top cover 295 configured to be operably coupled to the support structure 202. The top cover 295 may be transparent to the radiation 250. Referring to FIG. 2A, in some embodiments, the radiation detector 200 includes a shielding material 296 configured to shield the radiation 250 from undesired portions of the radiation detector 200. In some embodiments, the shielding material 296 includes tungsten. In some embodiments, the shielding material 270 may be located in the spaces 232 between adjacent facets 230. In some embodiments, the shielding material 270 includes tungsten.

As discussed above, the radiation detector 200 may include one or more electronic boards to facilitate operation of the detector module 240 and the scanning system 100 (FIG. 1), and more specifically, to facilitate electrical communication between the detector module 240 and the radiation detector 200. The electronics on the electronic boards may be configured to control the radiation detector 200 and the rotor 106 (FIG. 1). In some embodiments, the electronic boards may be configured to distribute power throughout the scanning system 100 (FIG. 1) and to communicate signals between, for example, the rotor 106 and other components of the scanning system 100 and the radiation detector 200.

Although the radiation detector 200 is described and illustrated as including a heat exchanger 245 including a fan 290 and fins 252, the disclosure is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the heat exchanger 245 configured to cool the temperature of the arc portion 206 and the detector module 240 may include other structures. For example, the heat exchanger 245 may include a cooling structure including a chiller or a water chiller. In some such embodiments, the cavity 255 may not include fins 252 and may include a chiller including, for example, a pipe through which cooling water flows to control the temperature of the arc portion 206 by water cooling. In some embodiments, the arc portion 206 is in thermal communication with a structure including a pipe or channel through which water can flow to control its temperature. As a non-limiting example, the cavity 255 may not include fins 252, but may include a structure including a channel that interfaces with the lower portion of the arc portion 206 and is configured to flow water. The temperature of the structure and the temperature of the arc portion 206 can be controlled based on one or both of the temperature of the fluid (e.g., water) flowing through the channel, the flow rate of the fluid, the surface area of the channel, and the volume of the channel. In some embodiments, the cavity 255 is replaced with a solid material that includes one or more channels therein. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the arc portion 206 can include a pipe through which water can flow to control the temperature of the arc portion 206.

3 is a simplified perspective view of a detector module 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The detector module 300 may include the detector module 240 of FIG. 2A. The detector module 300 may include a base structure 310 including a first surface 312 and a second surface 314 opposite the first surface 312, one or more detector units 320 overlying the base structure 310, and an anti-scatter module (ASM) 330 overlying the detector units 320. The detector module 300 may further include a handle 340 operably coupled to the base structure 310. Each detector unit 320 may be referred to herein as a "detector tile" or simply a "tile." The anti-scatter module may absorb unwanted radiation scattered by an object being scanned (e.g., object 102 (FIG. 1)).

The detector module 300 may include one or more connectors for electrically connecting the detector module 300 to the radiation detector 200 (e.g., to an electronic board of the radiation detector 200).

The detector module 300 may include openings 360 or cutout portions that correspond to the spacing and location of the openings 234 (FIG. 2C) in the facet 230 (FIG. 2C). In some embodiments, the detector module 300 may be attached to the surface 236 of the facet 230 by aligning the openings 360 with the openings 234 of the corresponding facet 230 and fastening the detector module 300 to the corresponding facet 230 with a fastening means (e.g., bolts, screws, other structures).

The surface of the detector unit 320 can be in direct contact with the second surface 314 of the base structure 310. The detector unit 320 may be in direct thermal contact with the second surface 314 of the base structure 310. In some embodiments, the first surface 312 may be generally planar and may contact the surface 236 of the corresponding facet 230, and the second surface 314 may be generally planar, may be parallel to the first surface 312, and may be configured to receive one or more detector units 320.

Figure 4A is a simplified perspective view of a detector unit 400 (e.g., an indirect conversion detector unit, a direct conversion detector unit) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detector unit 400 may include, for example, one of detector units 320 (Figure 3) of detector module 300 (Figure 3). Figure 4B is a simplified perspective view of a detector unit 400', which may correspond, for example, to one of detector units 320 (Figure 3) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The detector units 400, 400' may include detector tiles configured to be coupled to the detector module 300 (FIG. 3). Referring to FIG. 4B, in some embodiments, the detector unit 400' includes a connector 402 for electrically coupling the detector unit 400' to the radiation detector 200 (FIG. 2) (e.g., an electronics board of the radiation detector 200).

The detector unit 400, 400' may include an indirect conversion detector unit or a direct conversion detector unit. For example, in some embodiments, the detector unit 400, 400' includes a photodetector array coupled to a scintillator array, as known in the art. In another embodiment, the detector unit 400, 400' includes a direct conversion detector, such as CzZnTe, as known in the art. Additionally, in some embodiments, the detector unit 400, 400' may include a radiation shielding material formulated and configured to suppress or attenuate at least a portion of the radiation photons (e.g., x-ray photons and/or gamma ray photons) impinging thereon. As non-limiting examples, the radiation shielding material may include one or more of tungsten, lead, tantalum, leaded glass, and heavy metal powder composites (e.g., tungsten powder in a polymer binder). In some embodiments, the radiation shielding material includes tungsten.

In use and operation of the scanning system 100, the detector units 320 (e.g., detector units 400, 400') of the detector module 300 generate heat. As the size of the scanning system 100 (and the corresponding size of the radiation detector 116) increases, the size of the detector modules 240, 300 and/or the number of detector units 320 may experience a corresponding increase. Heat generated by the detector units 320 may be removed from the radiation detector 116 by the support structure 202, including the arc portion 206. For example, heat from the detector units 320 may be transferred from the detector units 320 to the first surface 312 of the base structure 310 and from the base structure 310 directly to the facets 230 of the arc portion 206. The heat may be transferred through the arc portion 206 and removed from the system through the fins 252, as described above, or by flowing air through a cooling medium (e.g., cooling water).

The radiation detector 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can facilitate improved accuracy of images generated using the scanning system 100 (FIG. 1). For example, the facet 230 can substantially fully support the detector module 240, 300, reducing or substantially preventing deflection of the detector module 240 and associated detector unit (e.g., detector unit 320). In other words, the base structure 310 of the detector module 240, 300 can be fully supported on the surface 236 of the facet 230, and the detector unit 320 can be fully supported on the second surface 314 of the base structure 310. Thus, G forces exerted on the detector module 240, 300 during rotation of the rotor 106 (FIG. 1) and associated with the radiation detector 116 (FIG. 1) may not substantially deflect the detector module 240, 300, including the detector unit 320, because the base structure 310 is supported by the facet 230. In comparison, the detector units of conventional scanning systems are not fully supported by facets or other support structures. For example, the detector units of so-called "spine" type cradles include a mounting bracket with a first surface that is attached to the rotated cradle and a second surface to which the detector unit is attached. The second surface is oriented perpendicular to the first surface. Thus, as the rotor rotates, G forces on the detector module cause the detector unit to bend, reducing the accuracy of measurements made with the detector unit. Another type of conventional scanning system includes so-called "polygon" type cradles in which the support structure for the detector unit spans different parts of the cradle. However, as the rotor rotates, the support structure bends, causing a corresponding bend in the detector unit, reducing the accuracy of measurements made with the detector unit.

In addition, the radiation detector 200 including the arc portion 206 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can facilitate improved temperature control of the detector modules 240, 300 and detector units 320 (e.g., detector units 400, 500) compared to conventional scanning systems. For example, the arc portion 206 facilitates indirect heat transfer between the detector module 240 and the surrounding environment through the arc portion 206. The temperature of the arc portion 206 can be controlled by removing heat from the arc portion 206 through the fins 252 and the passage of air, and by controlling the power of the heater element 260. In comparison, the temperature of the detector module of a conventional scanning system can be directly controlled by the passage of air as the rotor rotates and the air passes across the detector module. However, such a method may result in insufficient temperature control of the detector module. For example, the rate of heat transfer from the detector module may depend on the rotational speed of the rotor. As described herein, removing heat from the radiation detector 200 through the arc portion 206 can facilitate more uniform temperature control of the radiation detector 200 compared to conventional scanning systems. For example, due to the relatively large thermal mass of the arc portion 206, the rate of temperature change of the arc portion 206 and the associated detector array 200 is substantially slower (e.g., the time constant of the temperature change is greater) compared to conventional scanning systems. Thus, scanning systems including detector arrays according to embodiments described herein may be less susceptible to changes in airflow or rotor rotational speed compared to conventional scanning systems.

In addition, the second surface 314 of the detector module 300, which contacts the corresponding substantially planar surface 236 of the facet 230, facilitates direct bonding and alignment of the detector module 300 to the facet 230 of the radiation detector 200. In addition, the opening 360 of the detector module 300 facilitates alignment of the detector module 300 to the flat, substantially planar surface 236 of the facet 230. The opening 360 and handle 340 of the detector module 300 allow for improved maintenance of the radiation detector 200 as compared to conventional scanning systems.

2A-2E are described and illustrated as including a radiation detector 200 including a support structure 202 including an arc portion 206 having a particular shape, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. FIG. 5A is a simplified cross-sectional view of a radiation detector 500 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The radiation detector 500 may be substantially similar to the radiation detector 200 of FIGS. 2A-2F, except that the radiation detector 500 may include a support structure 502 that exhibits a different shape than the support structure 202 of the radiation detector 200. The support structure 502 may exhibit a truncated hexagonal shape. The support structure 502 may be located opposite a radiation source 514 configured to emit radiation 550 toward a facet 530 of the support structure 502.

The support structure 502 may define a cavity 555 configured to receive a heat exchanger 545, as described above with reference to the cavity 255 of the support structure 202. In some embodiments, the heat exchanger 545 may include fins 552, as described above with reference to the heat exchanger 245. A fan may be coupled to the support structure 502 and configured to provide air through the fins 552, as described above with reference to the fan 290. Thus, the support structure 502 may exhibit a truncated hexagonal shape.

5B is a simplified cross-sectional view of a radiation detector 500' according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The radiation detector 500' may be substantially similar to the radiation detector 500, except that the radiation detector 500' may have a different cross-sectional shape. For example, the radiation detector 500' may include a support structure 502' including a first portion 590 having a circular shape and a second portion 592 coupled to the first portion 590 having a substantially linear shape. The support structure 502' may include facets (not shown), as described above with reference to the radiation detector 500 and the radiation detector 200.

FIG. 5C is a simplified cross-sectional view of a radiation detector 500″ according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The radiation detector 500″ may be used in an emission system (e.g., a SPECT system, a PET system). The radiation detector 500″ may be substantially similar to the radiation detector 500′, except that the radiation detector 500″ may have a different cross-sectional shape. For example, the radiation detector 500″ may include a support structure 502″ having a U-shape. The support structure may include a first portion 590′ having a circular shape and a second portion 592′ coupled to the first portion 590′ having a substantially straight shape. The angle between the first portion 590′ and the second portion 592′ may be different from the angle between the first portion 590 and the second portion 592 of the support structure 502′ of FIG. 5B. In some embodiments, the second portions 592′ are oriented substantially parallel to each other. The support structure 502'' may include facets (not shown), as described above with reference to radiation detector 500 and radiation detector 200.

1 and 2A-2E are described and illustrated as including a scanning system 100 including a particular type of radiation detector 116, 200, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the radiation detector 200 may include a so-called positron emission tomography (PET) system, where the radiation detector is in the form of a ring. FIG. 6 is a simplified diagram of a scanning system including, for example, a positron emission tomography (PET) scanning system 600. The PET scanning system 600 may be substantially similar to the scanning system 100 of FIG. 1, except that the PET scanning system 600 may include different radiation detectors. The PET scanning system 600 may include a detector array 616 arranged in a ring shape. The detector array 616 may be substantially similar to the radiation detectors 116, 200 (FIGS. 1, 2A-2F), except that the radiation detectors 616 may include detectors arranged substantially all around a circle. In some embodiments, the radiation detector 616 may be formed from segments of one or more radiation detectors 200, 500, 500', 500'', etc. arranged to form a circular shape. Thus, the radiation detector 616 may include a support structure (e.g., support structure 202) that includes arc portions (e.g., arc portion 206) arranged substantially around the entire circle. Alternatively, the PET scanning system 600 may include a detector array 616 arranged in a combination of circular and linear portions, such as that shown and described with reference to FIG. 5B. In addition, the PET scanning system 600 may not include a radiation source (e.g., radiation source 114 (FIG. 1)). In some such embodiments, the patient 602 may include (e.g., be injected with) a radioactive tracer material.

Thus, a radiation detector according to embodiments described herein may include a support structure including an arc portion configured to be in physical and thermal contact with a detector module disposed on a facet of the arc portion. The facet and detector module may be enclosed within the support structure and may not be in direct fluid communication with an external environment. The arc portion may exhibit a thermal mass that is relatively greater than the thermal mass of an individual detector module. The arc portion may be in thermal communication with one or more heater elements and one or more cooling elements (e.g., fins 252 (FIGS. 2A, 2B)). The temperature of the detector module may be indirectly controlled through controlling the temperature of the arc portion of the support structure, which may be controlled by operation of the heater elements and cooling elements. The relatively greater thermal mass of the arc portion and the isolation of the detector module from the external environment may facilitate improved temperature control of the detector module compared to conventional scanning systems. Additionally, the facets may facilitate improved physical support of the detector module during use and operation, reducing physical deflection and bending of the detector module compared to conventional scanning systems.

Additional non-limiting exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described below.

Embodiment 1: A radiation scanning system comprising a radiation detector arranged to receive at least a portion of the radiation, the radiation detector comprising: an arc portion having a plurality of facets on a side thereof; a detector module coupled to each facet, the detector module comprising a base portion having a first substantially planar surface in contact with the respective facet; a detector unit coupled to a second substantially planar surface of the base portion, the second substantially planar surface being parallel to the first substantially planar surface; and a heat exchanger for removing heat from the arc portion, the heat exchanger being in thermal communication with a side of the arc portion opposite the plurality of facets.

Embodiment 2: A radiation scanning system as described in embodiment 1, wherein the heat exchanger includes fins.

Embodiment 3: A radiation scanning system as described in embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the heat exchanger includes a water chiller.

Embodiment 4: A radiation scanning system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the facet is oriented to face the radiation source.

Embodiment 5: A radiation scanning system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4, further comprising a shielding material between adjacent facets.

Embodiment 6: A radiation scanning system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the surface of each detector module is oriented substantially perpendicular to a line between the surface of the respective detector module and the radiation source.

Embodiment 7: A radiation scanning system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the detector unit includes an indirect conversion detector unit.

Embodiment 8: A radiation scanning system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the detector unit includes a direct conversion detector unit.

Embodiment 9: A radiation scanning system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 8, further comprising one or more heater elements in thermal communication with the arc portion.

Embodiment 10: A radiation detector for a radiation imaging system, the radiation detector comprising: a support structure comprising a base portion; an arc portion spaced from the base portion, the arc portion comprising a first surface having a plurality of facets facing a circular center at least partially defined by the arc portion, and a second surface opposite the first surface; a cooling structure located at least partially between the base portion and the arc portion; and a detector module coupled to each facet of the plurality of facets, each facet being in direct thermal communication with a respective detector module, each detector module comprising a detector unit.

Embodiment 11: The radiation detector of embodiment 10, further comprising a cover that encloses the cooling structure from the external environment.

Embodiment 12: A radiation detector as described in embodiment 10 or 11, in which the surface of each detector module faces the radiation source.

Embodiment 13: A radiation detector according to any one of embodiments 10 to 12, wherein each detector module has a substantially planar surface.

Embodiment 14: A radiation detector according to any one of embodiments 10 to 13, wherein the cooling structure includes a plurality of fins and one or more fans.

Embodiment 15: A radiation detector according to any one of embodiments 10 to 13, in which the cooling structure includes a water cooler.

Embodiment 16: A radiation detector according to any one of embodiments 10 to 15, further comprising a heater element adjacent to the second surface.

Embodiment 17: A radiation system comprising: a plurality of detector modules, each of which comprises a radiation detector, arranged on an arc portion of a cradle configured to rotate about a detection region, each of which comprises a detector unit having a main surface that is substantially perpendicular to a line extending from the main surface to a center of a circle at least partially defined by the arc portion; and a cooling structure on a side of the arc portion opposite the plurality of detector modules and configured to transfer heat from the arc portion.

Embodiment 18: A radiation system as described in embodiment 17, wherein a main surface of each detector unit is exposed in a direction toward the radiation source.

Embodiment 19: A radiation system as described in embodiment 17 or 18, further comprising one or more heater elements on a side of the arc portion opposite the plurality of detector modules.

Embodiment 20: A radiation system according to any one of embodiments 17 to 20, wherein the cooling structure includes cooling fins and one or more fans configured to direct air generally perpendicular to the length of the arc portion.

Embodiment 21: A radiation scanning system comprising a rotor, a radiation source coupled to the rotor, and a radiation detector coupled to the rotor opposite the radiation source, the radiation detector comprising an arc portion having a first side thereof with a plurality of facets, a detector module coupled to each facet of the plurality of facets, and a cooling structure in thermal communication with a second side of the arc portion.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may be susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments of which are shown by way of example in the drawings and described in detail herein. It is to be understood, however, that the present disclosure is not limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the present disclosure encompasses all modifications, variations, combinations, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the following appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims (21)

1. A radiation scanning system comprising:
a radiation detector positioned to receive at least a portion of the radiation, the radiation detector comprising:
an arcuate portion having a plurality of facets on a side surface thereof;
a detector module coupled to each facet, the detector module comprising: a base portion having a first substantially planar surface in contact with the respective facet;
a detector unit coupled to a second generally planar surface of the base portion, the second generally planar surface being parallel to the first generally planar surface; and
a heat exchanger for removing heat from said arc portion, the heat exchanger being in thermal communication with a side of said arc portion opposite said plurality of facets. The radiation scanning system of claim 1, wherein the heat exchanger includes fins. The radiation scanning system of claim 1, wherein the heat exchanger includes a water cooler. The radiation scanning system of claim 1, wherein the facet is oriented to face the radiation source. The radiation scanning system of claim 1, further comprising a shielding material between adjacent facets. A radiation scanning system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the surface of each detector module is oriented substantially perpendicular to a line between the surface of the respective detector module and the radiation source. The radiation scanning system of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the detector unit includes an indirect conversion detector unit. The radiation scanning system of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the detector unit includes a direct conversion detector unit. The radiation scanning system of any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising one or more heater elements in thermal communication with the arc portion. 1. A radiation detector for a radiation imaging system, comprising:
A support structure comprising:
The base part,
a support structure comprising: an arc portion spaced from the base portion, the arc portion comprising a first surface having a plurality of facets facing a circular center at least partially defined by the arc portion, and a second surface opposite the first surface;
a cooling structure located at least partially between the base portion and the arc portion;
a detector module coupled to each facet of the plurality of facets, each facet being in direct thermal communication with a respective detector module, each detector module comprising a detector unit. The radiation detector of claim 10, further comprising a cover that encloses the cooling structure from an external environment. The radiation detector of claim 10, wherein a surface of each detector module faces toward the radiation source. The radiation detector of claim 10, wherein each detector module has a substantially planar surface. The radiation detector of claim 10, wherein the cooling structure includes a plurality of fins and one or more fans. The radiation detector according to any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the cooling structure includes a water cooler. The radiation detector of any one of claims 10 to 14, further comprising a heater element adjacent to the second surface. 1. A radiation system comprising:
A radiation detector, the radiation detector comprising:
a plurality of detector modules disposed on an arc portion of a cradle configured to rotate about a detection region, each detector module comprising a detector unit having a major surface that is substantially perpendicular to a line extending from the major surface to a center of a circle at least partially defined by the arc portion;
a cooling structure on a side of the arc portion opposite the plurality of detector modules and configured to transfer heat from the arc portion. The radiation system of claim 17, wherein the main surface of each detector unit is exposed in a direction toward the radiation source. The radiation system of claim 17, further comprising one or more heater elements on a side of the arc portion opposite the plurality of detector modules. The radiation system of any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the cooling structure includes cooling fins and one or more fans configured to direct air generally perpendicular to the length of the arc portion. 1. A radiation scanning system comprising:
A rotor;
a radiation source coupled to the rotor;
a radiation detector coupled to the rotor opposite the radiation source, the radiation detector comprising:
an arcuate portion including a plurality of facets on a first side thereof;
a detector module coupled to each facet of the plurality of facets;
a cooling structure in thermal communication with a second side of the arc portion.

Images