A*STAR’s Institute of Microelectronics is developing a new medical X-ray
imaging detector with improved sensitivity and signal processing performance
The A*STAR Institute of Microelectronics and nanoX Imaging Ltd join
forces to develop a new medical X-ray imaging detector
In a
move that promises to accelerate the development of a novel, highly sensitive
X-ray imaging detector, the A*STAR Institute of Microelectronics (IME) has
formed a collaborative partnership with the multinational start-up nanoX
Imaging Ltd, a provider of medical imaging solutions. The project is likely to
offer improvements in current medical imaging technologies and the treatment of
a number of serious human diseases.
The
collaboration builds on the IME’s successful development of
microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices for a broad range of biomedical
applications. Dim-Lee Kwong, executive director of the IME, praises the
strategic partnership as being well-timed to benefit the growing global market
for medical technology products.
The
X-ray imaging system, first developed in the 1890s, is the most widely used
method of examining the body’s internal organs, tissues and bone structure that
does not require invasive surgery. In recent years, dramatic advances have been
made in the development of X-ray detectors, largely due to the rapid expansion
of the semiconductor and thin-film industries. However, some abnormal tissues —
such as cysts and tumors — remain difficult to detect with current
technologies, unless examined using high levels of radiation, which can pose
risks to the patient.
The IME–nanoX
Imaging partnership aims to develop a high-performance and commercially viable
MEMS-based X-ray imaging detector that employs field emission detection.
Research will focus on enhancing detection sensitivity and improving digital
signal processing performance, which could lead to earlier diagnoses that are
made with greater accuracy and reduced exposure to radiation. “Image quality
will continue to be the paramount criterion, and overcoming the current
limitation will benefit all stakeholders in this industry,” adds Kwong.
Key to
the collaboration is the institute’s experience and state-of-the-art
facilities, which include advanced capabilities in silicon-based MEMS
processes. “We sought a good 200-millimeter MEMS foundry over the world and
finally came to the IME, recognizing its capabilities best fit our requirements
as we planned for the transition from development to commercialization,” says
Hitoshi Masuya, CEO of nanoX Imaging.
Since
its founding in 1991, the IME has developed pioneering technologies that span
the fields of bioelectronics, integrated circuits design and photonics. By
actively engaging the wider semiconductor community and identifying global
trends in advanced manufacturing, the IME is able to support the growth of
emerging applications from the concept, design and prototype phases to full
commercialization. Thus, extending the use of MEMS technology to incorporate
X-ray imaging detectors will reinforce the IME’s expertise in developing
innovative, cost-effective MEMS products and devices for real-world
applications.
Through
its partnership with the IME, nanoX Imaging joins an increasing number of
biotechnology and nanotechnology companies that are establishing research ties
and facilities within Singapore. Meanwhile, the IME continues to make a
significant contribution to the country’s growing reputation as a hub of MEMS
research and development through a variety of cooperative activities. These
include co-presenting the MEMS Forum with SEMI, a global industry association
that supports advances in the micro- and nanoelectronics industries. Held in
May 2013, the forum brought together academics and industry experts to discuss
and propose strategies for successfully taking innovative MEMS-based
technologies to market.
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