X-Rays and Tricorders; Futuristic Hand-held Medical Diagnostics

In the fictional Star Trek universe, a tricorder is a multifunction hand-held device used for sensor scanning, data analysis, and recording data”.

However, medical diagnostics here on earth don’t work that way. According to Scott Kovaleski of the University of Missouri, “Currently, X-ray machines are huge and require tremendous amounts of electricity…”

But Prof. Kovaleski and his team have recently invented a machine that might change that dynamic. Only the size of a stick of gum, the accelerator device created at MU can generate X-Rays and other types of radiation.

The key to the success of the MU device lies in the materials. Using a lithium niobate crystal the team is able to harness the piezoelectric effect and amplify a 10 volt current all the way up to 100,000 volts, more than enough power to begin generating X-rays.

“In approximately three years, we could have a prototype hand-held X-ray scanner using our invention. The cell-phone-sized device could improve medical services in remote and impoverished regions and reduce health care expenses everywhere.” Says Kovaleski.

While being able to deliver diagnostic services is a pretty spectacular feat, the value of Prof. Kovaleski’s device doesn’t end there. Because of its compact nature and its ability to produce multiple types of radiation the device has the potential to make border security and inspection more thorough.

Now, some of you may be asking if it’s safe for people to be using handheld X-Ray machines. Prof. Kovaleski is quick to point out “Our device is perfectly harmless until energized, and even then it causes relatively low exposures to radiation.”

Beam me up!