Patent ID: 7227924
Filing Date: 2007-06-05
Classification: A61B,B82Y,G01N,H01J

Abstract:
1. A micro computed tomography scanner, comprising: a micro-focus field emission x-ray source comprising addressable nanostructure-containing electron field emission materials, a gate electrode and a metal anode, wherein voltage is applied between the gate electrode and the electron field emission materials to generate an electron beam to bombard the metal anode with electrons for generating x-ray radiation; an x-ray detector configured to collect a projection image of an object formed by the x-ray radiation; an object stage placed between the x-ray source and the detector for positioning the object in a plurality of predetermined positions with respect to the x-ray radiation; an electronic control system and a computer that control generation of the x-ray radiation by the x-ray source and collection of a plurality of projection images from different projection angles by the x-ray detector; and whereby the micro computer tomograghy scanner is configured for generating a three dimensional image of the object using the plurality of projection images collected from the different projection angles, wherein application of a voltage between the gate electrode and the electron field emission materials and positioning of the object in the predetermined positions are coordinated such that the plurality of projection images are collected by the x-ray detector.