# Multiple X-ray Source Array (MXA) Computed Tomography

> **NIH NIH U01** · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS · 2024 · $649,660

## Abstract

Multiple-X-ray Source Array-based Computed Tomography (MXA-CT)
The long-term objectives of the proposed research are to develop an x-ray tube which contains an array of 6 x-
ray sources within the same vacuum enclosure, and then demonstrate the utility of this multiple x -ray source
array (MXA) towards improving image quality in whole body (general-purpose) computed tomography (CT)
scanners as well as cone beam CT systems. Current CT systems with a single x-ray source which have large
coverage along the length of the patient (the z-axis) suffer from considerable cone beam artifacts at the
peripheral edges of the field-of-view, due to incomplete sampling caused by angled x-ray trajectories imposed
by the geometry of a single x-ray source system. By aligning six x-ray sources along the z-axis and pulsing them
wisely during the CT scan, the angled x-ray trajectories which cause cone beam artifacts can be significantly
reduced, essentially eliminating these cone beam artifacts. The specific aims include (1) design, fabrication and
testing of the six-source x-ray tube, (2) design and construction of a test bed tabletop CT scanner which will use
the MXA source to demonstrate the superior performance of the proposed scanner system as a proof -of-
principle, (3) work in collaboration with one of the largest manufacturers of x-ray tubes in the world (Varex) to
gain from their x-ray tube (and detector) experience and demonstrate with them the scientific and technical
potential of this new x-ray tube design in a way that facilitates commercialization of the MXA-CT technology, (4)
development of CT image reconstruction algorithms (including conventional and AI-based) which are specifically
tailored to the unique geometry of the proposed tabletop CT prototype, (5) perform Monte Carlo and other
computer simulations to thoroughly evaluate the radiation dose distribution produced by this new sca nner
geometry, and (6) use phantom and cadaver imaging experiments on the prototype MXA-CT system to
demonstrate superior CT imaging performance using rigorous quantitative metrics of image quality and artifact
reduction.
This proposal is submitted under the Bioengineering Partnerships with Industry (BPI, PAR-22-123), and
represents a collaboration between University of California Davis, Johns Hopkins University, University of New
Mexico Albuquerque, and Varex Imaging as our corporate partner. Along with t hree engaged consultants, the
research team possesses depth and breadth with respect to CT imaging and technology development, along
with established track records of collaboration between the members of the team .

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10849139
- **Project number:** 1U01EB034205-01A1
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS
- **Principal Investigator:** JOHN M BOONE
- **Activity code:** U01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $649,660
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-05-15 → 2029-04-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10849139

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10849139, Multiple X-ray Source Array (MXA) Computed Tomography (1U01EB034205-01A1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-25 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10849139. Licensed CC0.

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