Spectral X-ray imaging using variable high voltage X-ray source

An imaging system, comprising:

• an X-ray generator configured to provide an alternating current (AC) high voltage output having an amplitude and a frequency;
• a distributed X-ray source coupled to the X-ray generator and including an array of X-ray emitters and configured to generate an X-ray beam with an energy spectrum based on the AC high voltage output;
• and
• a controller coupled to the X-ray generator and to the distributed X-ray source and configured to:
• control a timing of when to engage an X-ray emitter of the array of X-ray emitters of the distributed X-ray source based on a predefined firing pattern;
• select a voltage level provided to the distributed X-ray source for the X-ray beam based on a predefined pattern of X-ray spectrum;
• engage a first X-ray emitter, of the array of X-ray emitters, at a first time to generate a first X-ray spectrum;
• and
• engage a second X-ray emitter, of the array of X-ray emitters, at a second time to generate a second X-ray spectrum that is different from the first X-ray spectrum.