High-fidelity electronic display of digital radiographs

Abstract

A fully digital radiography system requires high-fidelity electronic display devices that preserve diagnostic quality. Current cathode-ray tube monitors do not meet desired performance criteria for displaying radiographs and have excessive size, weight, and power consumption. Recent developments in flat-panel display technology (in particular active-matrix liquid crystal displays, field-emission displays, and organic light-emitting displays) suggest that high-fidelity, lightweight displays will be available in the near future. Large-size active-matrix liquid crystal display devices have been demonstrated. High brightness can be easily achieved with bright back illumination. Further developments in optical design for monochrome displays should provide high fidelity and improve the angular dependence of the emitted light. Field-emission display devices have attractive emission distribution and potential for low veiling glare. This technology needs to be extended to a large area, and problems with cathode aging and nonuniformity have to be contemplated. Organic light-emitting displays represent a simple and potentially inexpensive display technology with the ability to achieve high image quality. However, extensive research and development is required to achieve large-area manufacturing methods.