Design and Implementation of a Microprocessor-Controlled Digital Radiography System for Medical Applications

Abdullah Waadallah Fathi Sultan; Momen Ammar  Waadallah; Ola Fahad Mohsen  Kashi; Neeran Raied Kadhim  Hussain

doi:10.51699/cajmns.v7i1.3029

Abdullah Waadallah Fathi Sultan Department of Medical Instrumentation Techniques Engineering, Techniques Engineering College of Mosul, Northern Techniques University, Iraq
Momen Ammar Waadallah Department of Medical Instrumentation Techniques Engineering, Techniques Engineering College of Mosul, Northern Techniques University, Iraq
Ola Fahad Mohsen Kashi University of Babylon, College of Engineering, Biomedical Engineering Department, Iraq
Neeran Raied Kadhim Hussain University of Babylon, College of Engineering, Biomedical Engineering Department, Iraq

DOI: https://doi.org/10.51699/cajmns.v7i1.3029

Keywords: Digital Radiography, Microprocessor Control, X-ray Generator, Automatic Exposure Control, Flat Panel Detector, Medical Imaging

Abstract

This paper presents an affordable digital medical diagnostic system that integrates a high-frequency x-ray generator, a digital flat-panel detector, and an ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller for automated exposure control and real-time image processing. The prototype achieves a spatial resolution of 3.5 lp/mm and a detective quantum efficiency of 52% at 0.5 cycles/mm. It operates at a tube voltage of 40-125 kVp with an accuracy of ±2% and exposure times ranging from 0.01 to 3.2 seconds. Notably, a new feedback loop algorithm reduces patient dose by 23% compared to traditional systems while maintaining diagnostic image quality as per ISO 7004-1. With a total component cost of $4,850, it represents a 68% reduction compared to entry-level commercial systems. Validation was performed using anthropomorphic phantoms and cadaveric specimens across five anatomical regions. The system meets IEC 60601-1-3 safety standards and addresses healthcare challenges in underserved areas. Future developments will focus on incorporating machine learning for image enhancement and expanding the detector area for whole-body radiography.

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