What is the function of indirect digital systems in imaging?

Indirect digital systems in imaging utilize phosphor plates for scanning, which is a key process in capturing images. These systems work by using a phosphor screen that is exposed to radiation. When radiation hits the phosphor plate, it stores the energy temporarily, creating a latent image. This stored energy is then read out by a scanner, which converts it into a digital image that can be manipulated and analyzed on a computer.

This approach allows for several advantages, such as reduced radiation exposure compared to traditional film, the ability to enhance and manipulate images digitally, and quicker results since the imaging process can be streamlined and made more efficient. The use of phosphor plates is a defining characteristic of indirect imaging systems, distinguishing them from direct methods that might involve different technologies, such as traditional film or more advanced sensors that capture images without a phosphor intermediary.