Scintillator structure, detection unit, detector and detection equipment

Abstract

The invention provides a scintillator structure, a detection unit, a detector and detection equipment. The scintillator structure comprises at least one scintillation crystal, at least one dielectric and / or at least one Cherenkov scintillator. The scintillation crystal and the dielectric body and / or the Cherenkov scintillator are arranged according to a preset rule. The scintillator structure can provide heterogeneous detection data to obtain data with high energy resolution and high time resolution, so that higher image quality can be provided in imaging application.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of high-energy photon detection, and more specifically, to a scintillator structure, a detection unit, a detector, and a detection device. Background Technology

[0002] High-energy ray detectors are often used in applications such as positron emission tomography, single-photon emission tomography, neutron logging in oil wells, high-energy physics, and space physics to detect particles such as gamma rays, neutrons, protons, and alpha particles.

[0003] Scintillators are a crucial component of high-energy ray detectors, responsible for converting high-energy rays into visible light. There are various types of scintillators, such as dielectric scintillators, Cherenkov scintillators, and scintillating crystals. Dielectric scintillators and Cherenkov scintillators offer extremely high temporal resolution, but their energy resolution is significantly lacking. Scintillating crystals, on the other hand, provide considerable energy resolution, but their temporal resolution is less than satisfactory. This results in an irreconcilable contradiction between the temporal and energy resolution performance of these scintillators in high-energy ray detection. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application proposes a scintillator structure, a detection unit, a detector, and a detection device to solve at least one of the above-mentioned problems.

[0005] According to one aspect of this application, a scintillator structure is proposed, the scintillator structure comprising: at least one scintillating crystal, and further comprising at least one dielectric and / or at least one Cherenkov scintillator; the scintillating crystal and the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator are arranged according to a preset rule.

[0006] According to some embodiments, the scintillation crystal is stacked with the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator in a first direction.

[0007] According to some embodiments, the scintillation crystal is stacked with the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator in a second direction.

[0008] According to some embodiments, the scintillation crystal is at least partially stacked with the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator in a first direction and at least partially stacked in a second direction different from the first direction.

[0009] According to some embodiments, the scintillation crystal is embedded in the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator by wrapping around it.

[0010] According to some embodiments, the scintillation crystal is made of at least one of LYSO, YSO, LSO, BGO, and NaI. According to some embodiments, the Cherenkov scintillator is made of...

[0011] The most important thing in glass and transparent plastics

[0012] One less ingredient is needed to make it.

[0013] According to some embodiments, the dielectric is made of at least one of silicon dioxide and barium titanate.

[0014] According to some embodiments, an adhesive is provided between the scintillation crystal and the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator.

[0015] According to some embodiments, the adhesive includes at least one of polyurethane, polystyrene, polyacrylate, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, and photocurable resin.

[0016] According to one aspect of this application, a detection unit is provided, the detection unit including a scintillator structure and a photoelectric converter; the scintillator structure includes: at least one scintillator crystal, and further includes at least one dielectric and / or at least one Cherenkov scintillator; the scintillator crystal and the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator are arranged according to a preset rule; wherein the photoelectric converter is coupled to at least one of the scintillator crystal, dielectric, and Cherenkov scintillator.

[0017] According to some embodiments, the scintillation crystal is stacked with the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator in a first direction.

[0018] According to some embodiments, the scintillation crystal is stacked with the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator in a second direction.

[0019] According to some embodiments, the scintillation crystal is at least partially stacked with the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator in a first direction and at least partially stacked in a second direction different from the first direction.

[0020] According to some embodiments, the scintillation crystal is embedded in the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator by wrapping around it.

[0021] According to some embodiments, the scintillation crystal is coupled to the photoelectric converter; or,

[0022] The assembly formed by the scintillator crystal and the Cherenkov scintillator is coupled to the photoelectric converter. According to some embodiments, the scintillator structure and the photoelectric converter...

[0023] Light is set in the room

[0024] An optical coupling agent is used, wherein the difference between the refractive index of the optical coupling agent and the refractive index of the scintillation crystal or the Cherenkov scintillator is less than a preset value.

[0025] According to some embodiments, the optical coupling agent includes at least one of silicone grease and photocurable resin.

[0026] According to some embodiments, the scintillation crystal is made of at least one of LYSO, YSO, LSO, BGO, and NaI. According to some embodiments, the Cherenkov scintillator is made of...

[0027] The most important thing in glass and transparent plastics

[0028] One less ingredient is needed to make it.

[0029] According to some embodiments, the dielectric is made of at least one of silicon dioxide and barium titanate.

[0030] According to some embodiments, the outer surface of the scintillator structure is provided with an optical isolation layer.

[0031] According to some embodiments, the optical isolation layer is made of at least one of aluminum foil, barium sulfate, polytetrafluoroethylene, and titanium dioxide. According to some embodiments, the photoelectric converter includes...

[0032] Photomultiplier tube, silicon photomultiplier tube

[0033] Or a superconducting nanowire single-photon detector. According to one aspect of this application, a detector is provided.

[0034] The detector includes: a component of the...

[0035] An array composed of detection units. According to some embodiments, the array consists of detectors with the same structure.

[0036] The array is composed of detection units. According to some embodiments, the array is composed of detection units with different structures. According to one aspect of this application, a detection device is provided, the detection device comprising:

[0037] The detector described.

[0038] According to some exemplary embodiments of this application, the scintillator structure, detection unit, detector, and detection device proposed in this application combine a scintillator crystal with at least one of a dielectric and a Cherenkov scintillator. During detection, a portion of the incident high-energy rays are deposited in the scintillator crystal, and another portion is deposited in the dielectric or Cherenkov scintillator, or in both. The high-energy rays deposited in the scintillator crystal can provide higher energy resolution for imaging, while the high-energy rays deposited in the dielectric and Cherenkov scintillator can provide higher temporal resolution for imaging. The combination of the two constitutes heterogeneous detection data, which can provide a certain proportion of high energy resolution and high temporal resolution data, thereby providing higher image quality in imaging applications. Attached Figure Description

[0039] This application will be further described by way of exemplary embodiments, which will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are not limiting; in these embodiments, the same reference numerals denote the same structures, wherein:

[0040] Figures 1-23 This diagram illustrates a scintillator structure according to an example embodiment of the present application.

[0041] Figures 24-43 This diagram illustrates a structural schematic of another scintillator structure according to an example embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figures 44-54 This diagram illustrates a structural schematic of another scintillator structure according to an example embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figures 55-58 This diagram illustrates a structural schematic of another scintillator structure according to an example embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 59 A flowchart illustrating the acquisition process of dielectric signals according to an example embodiment of this application is shown.

[0045] Figure 60 A flowchart illustrating the acquisition process of Cherenkov scintillator and scintillation crystal signals according to an example embodiment of this application is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0046] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0047] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "fixed to" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is referred to as being "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only. The described features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided to give a full understanding of embodiments of this application. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the technical solutions of this application can be practiced without one or more of these specific details, or other methods, components, materials, devices, or operations may be employed. In these cases, well-known structures, methods, devices, implementations, materials, or operations will not be shown or described in detail.

[0048] The flowcharts shown in the accompanying drawings are merely illustrative and do not necessarily include all content and operations / steps, nor do they necessarily have to be performed in the described order. For example, some operations / steps can be broken down, while others can be combined or partially combined; therefore, the actual execution order may change depending on the specific circumstances.

[0049] The terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus. The terms "and / or" or "and / or" include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0050] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application.

[0051] As described in the background section, existing scintillators present an irreconcilable contradiction in terms of temporal and energy resolution performance in high-energy radiation. Taking positron emission tomography (PET) as an example, compared to traditional PET, time-of-flight PET (TOF-PET) additionally captures the time difference between the arrival of two gamma photons generated by positron annihilation at the two detectors, providing a certain temporal resolution. Based on this temporal information, TOF-PET images exhibit superior signal-to-noise ratio and spatial resolution compared to non-TOF-PET. However, the temporal resolution of commonly used TOF-PET detectors based on scintillator crystals (such as LYSO) is limited by the internal physical processes of the scintillator, theoretically reaching approximately 100 ps, ​​but currently only achieving about 200 ps. This restricts the signal-to-noise ratio and spatial resolution of TOF-PET images. Cherenkov scintillators and dielectrics can achieve better temporal resolution (approximately 20 ps) physically; however, due to physical processes, their energy resolution is very poor. This lack of energy resolution leads to numerous false coincidences when the system is dealing with large imaging objects.

[0052] To address the aforementioned problems, specific embodiments according to this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0053] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates a scintillator structure according to an example embodiment of this application. The scintillator structure 10, after coupling with a photoelectric converter, forms a detection unit for detecting high-energy rays. The scintillator structure 10 includes at least one scintillator crystal 11, and also includes at least one dielectric 12 and / or at least one Cherenkov scintillator 13. The scintillator crystal 11 and the dielectric 12 and / or Cherenkov scintillator 13 are arranged according to a preset rule. It should be particularly noted that... Figure 1 This only shows one arrangement of preset rules, and those skilled in the art will understand that the preset rules can be other.

[0054] It should be specifically noted that dielectric 12 refers to a material whose dielectric constant changes significantly under high-energy radiation. Those skilled in the art will understand that a change in dielectric constant 10... -8 The above can be considered significant changes. The dielectric constant is the ratio of the electric field strength to the electric displacement density in a medium; it is a physical quantity of the medium. Many factors affect the dielectric constant, the most important being temperature. In addition, humidity, frequency, and the molecular structure of the material also affect the dielectric constant. High-energy rays are a type of high-energy electromagnetic wave that can penetrate matter and interact with it. Irradiation by high-energy rays may affect the dielectric constant. When high-energy rays interact with a dielectric, they can generate electrical signals that cause changes in the dielectric constant.

[0055] For example, dielectric 12 is made of at least one of silicon dioxide and barium titanate. Cherenkov scintillation is an electromagnetic radiation phenomenon in which charged particles, moving through a medium, emit predominantly blue electromagnetic radiation when their velocity exceeds the speed of light within that medium. This radiation occurs because charged particles moving through the medium excite atoms or molecules in that medium, putting them into an excited state. When these atoms or molecules return to their ground state, they release energy, forming Cherenkov radiation. The total intensity of Cherenkov radiation is proportional to the velocity of the incident charged particles; more particles result in a stronger total intensity. Unlike fluorescence or stimulated emission, whose electromagnetic spectra have peaks at specific frequencies, the spectrum of Cherenkov radiation is continuous. The relative intensity at a given frequency is proportional to that frequency; that is, Cherenkov radiation has a stronger intensity at higher frequencies (shorter wavelengths). When high-energy rays enter the Cherenkov scintillator 13, they convert their energy into the kinetic energy of electrons, causing them to exceed the speed of light within the medium and triggering Cherenkov radiation.

[0056] For example, the Cherenkov scintillator 13 is made of at least one of glass and transparent plastic.

[0057] Scintillation crystal 11 is a material that exhibits luminescence properties when excited by ionizing radiation. It is a functional crystal material that can convert the energy of X-rays, gamma rays or other high-energy rays into visible or ultraviolet light. It can be used for radiation detection and safety protection. In applications, it is usually processed into crystals and is figuratively described as an "eye" that can see high-energy rays or particles.

[0058] For example, the scintillation crystal 11 is made of at least one of lutetium yttrium silicate (LYSO), yttrium silicate (YSO), lutetium silicate (LSO), bismuth germanate (BGO), and sodium iodide (NaI).

[0059] In this application example, the outer surface of the scintillation crystal 11 is provided with a reflective layer. Specifically, an opaque diffuse reflective material, such as BaSO4 powder or a specular reflective film, is coated on the outer surface of the scintillation crystal 11 as a reflective layer.

[0060] In some embodiments, the scintillator structure 10 may be connected to a signal readout path, wherein the dielectric 12 is connected to the signal readout path, and the electrical signal of the change in dielectric constant caused by the interaction of high-energy rays with the dielectric 12 is read out via the signal readout path. Specifically, the signal readout path may employ one of the following methods: lumped circuit method, transmission line method, resonant method, streak camera, or free space wave method. For details regarding the specific configuration of the signal readout path, please refer to the prior art, which will not be elaborated here.

[0061] In some embodiments, the scintillator structure 10 can also be used to couple to a photoelectric converter to convert Cherenkov light and / or scintillator light (both visible light) generated by high-energy rays deposited on the scintillator crystal 11 and / or Cherenkov scintillator 13 into electrical signals via the photoelectric converter.

[0062] It should be noted that, Figure 1 The diagram shows that the scintillator structure 10 includes one scintillator crystal 11, one dielectric 12, and one Cherenkov scintillator 13. As can be seen from the above, the scintillator structure 10 may also include only one scintillator crystal 11 and one dielectric 12, or one scintillator crystal 11 and one Cherenkov scintillator 13, or include multiple scintillator crystals 11 and dielectrics 12 and / or Cherenkov scintillators 13. That is, the number of any one or more of the scintillator crystals 11, dielectrics 12, and Cherenkov scintillators 13 exceeds one.

[0063] Furthermore, regarding the arrangement of the scintillation crystal 11 with the dielectric 12 and / or the Cherenkov scintillator 13 according to a preset rule, in some embodiments of this application, the scintillation crystal 11 and the dielectric 12 and / or the Cherenkov scintillator 13 are stacked in a first direction. Regarding the "first direction," in some embodiments, the first direction can be defined according to a preset coordinate axis. In some specific examples, such as... Figures 1-23 As shown in the figure, referring to the coordinate axes, the first direction is determined based on the coordinate axes, such as the Z-axis direction. Specifically, for example, when the outer surface of the scintillator structure 10 is all planar, the direction of the plane where the scintillator structure 10 is coupled to the photoelectric converter can be defined as the X-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction, which is perpendicular to the X-axis direction, can be defined as the first direction.

[0064] It should be noted that, regarding the stacking of the scintillator crystal 11 with the dielectric 12 and / or the Cherenkov scintillator 13 in the first direction, the scintillator structure 10 may have different alternative implementations.

[0065] In some embodiments, the scintillator structure 10 stacked in the first direction simultaneously includes a scintillator crystal 11, a dielectric 12, and a Cherenkov scintillator 13.

[0066] In some specific embodiments, the scintillator structure 10 includes one scintillator crystal 11, one dielectric 12, and one Cherenkov scintillator 13, and the positional relationship between them is not limited. One of them can be located between the other two, as shown in the example below. Figures 1-6 As shown.

[0067] In a specific example, the scintillator structure 10 may be a Cherenkov scintillator 13 located between the scintillator crystal 11 and the dielectric 12. For example, as... Figure 1As shown, along the first direction, the dielectric 12, Cherenkov scintillator 13, and scintillation crystal 11 are arranged in sequence, with the scintillation crystal 11 coupled to the photoelectric converter. The transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light (Cherenkov light) first passes through the Cherenkov scintillator 13 and the scintillation crystal 11, and then reaches the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11, part of the generated visible light (scintillation light) passes directly to the photoelectric converter through the scintillation crystal 11, and part is reflected and then passes through the scintillation crystal 11 into the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the dielectric 12, the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it.

[0068] exist Figure 1 In supplementary examples to the example shown, such as Figure 2 As shown, the scintillator structure 10 can also be arranged sequentially along the first direction in the order of scintillator crystal 11, Cherenkov scintillator 13, and dielectric 12, wherein the dielectric 12 is coupled to the photoelectric converter. The transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light (i.e., Cherenkov light) first passes through the Cherenkov scintillator 13 and the dielectric 12, and then reaches the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the scintillator crystal 11, part of the generated visible light (i.e., scintillator light) directly passes through the scintillator crystal 11, Cherenkov scintillator 13, and dielectric 12 to the photoelectric converter, and part of it is reflected and then passes through the scintillator crystal 11, Cherenkov scintillator 13, and dielectric 12 to enter the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the dielectric 12, the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it.

[0069] In a specific example, the scintillator structure 10 can also be a scintillator crystal 11 located between the Cherenkov scintillator 13 and the dielectric 12. For example, as... Figure 3 As shown, the dielectric material 12, scintillation crystal 11, and Cherenkov scintillator 13 are arranged sequentially along the first direction, with the Cherenkov scintillator 13 coupled to the photoelectric converter. The transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light (Cherenkov light) passes through the Cherenkov scintillator 13 and enters the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11, part of the generated visible light (scintillation light) directly passes through the scintillation crystal 11 and Cherenkov scintillator 13 to the photoelectric converter, and part is reflected and then passes through the scintillation crystal 11 and Cherenkov scintillator 13 before entering the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the dielectric material 12, the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it.

[0070] exist Figure 3 In supplementary examples to the example shown, such as Figure 4As shown, the scintillator structure 10 can also be arranged sequentially along the first direction in the order of Cherenkov scintillator 13, scintillator crystal 11, and dielectric 12, wherein the dielectric 12 is coupled to the photoelectric converter. The transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light (i.e., Cherenkov light) first passes through the Cherenkov scintillator 13, scintillator crystal 11, and dielectric 12, and then reaches the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the scintillator crystal 11, part of the generated visible light (i.e., scintillator light) directly passes through the scintillator crystal 11 and dielectric 12 to the photoelectric converter, and part is reflected and then passes through the scintillator crystal 11 and dielectric 12 to enter the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the dielectric 12, the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it.

[0071] In a specific example, the scintillator structure 10 could also be a dielectric 12 located between the scintillator crystal 11 and the Cherenkov scintillator 13. For example, as... Figure 5 As shown, the components are arranged sequentially along the first direction in the order of scintillation crystal 11, dielectric 12, and Cherenkov scintillator 13, wherein the Cherenkov scintillator 13 is coupled to the photoelectric converter. The transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light (i.e., Cherenkov light) passes through the Cherenkov scintillator 13 and enters the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11, part of the generated visible light (i.e., scintillation light) directly passes through the scintillation crystal 11, dielectric 12, and Cherenkov scintillator 13 to reach the photoelectric converter, while another part, after reflection, passes through the scintillation crystal 11, dielectric 12, and Cherenkov scintillator 13 before entering the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the dielectric 12, the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it.

[0072] exist Figure 5 In supplementary examples to the example shown, such as Figure 6 As shown, the scintillator structure 10 can also be arranged sequentially along the first direction in the order of Cherenkov scintillator 13, dielectric 12, and scintillator crystal 11, wherein the scintillator crystal 11 is coupled to the photoelectric converter. The transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light (i.e., Cherenkov light) passes through the Cherenkov scintillator 13, dielectric 12, and scintillator crystal 11, and then reaches the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the scintillator crystal 11, a portion of the generated visible light (i.e., scintillator light) directly passes through the scintillator crystal 11 to the photoelectric converter, and a portion is reflected and then passes through the scintillator crystal 11 to enter the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the dielectric 12, the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it.

[0073] In other specific embodiments, at least one of the scintillating crystal 11, dielectric 12, and Cherenkov scintillator 13 is provided in multiples. The number of each type may be the same or not completely the same, and the positional relationship between them is not limited. One type can be located between the other two. Some examples are as follows: Figures 7-8 As shown, but not limited to; three types of staggered stacking can also be used along the first direction, some examples of which are shown below. Figures 9-10 As shown, but not limited to.

[0074] Specifically, see Figure 7 When the scintillation crystal 11” is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: If deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, passes through Cherenkov scintillator 13, Cherenkov scintillator 13', dielectric 12, and scintillation crystal 11-11”, and then reaches the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13', the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, passes through Cherenkov scintillator 13', dielectric 12, and scintillation crystal 11-11”, and then reaches the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the dielectric 12, the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11”, the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, passes through Cherenkov scintillator 13', dielectric 12, and scintillation crystal 11-11”, and then reaches the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the dielectric 12, the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11”, the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, passes through the ... In crystal 11, a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, directly passes through scintillation crystal 11-11” and is directed to the photoelectric converter, while a portion is reflected and then passes through scintillation crystal 11-11” to enter the photoelectric converter. If the light is deposited in scintillation crystal 11', a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, directly passes through scintillation crystal 11'-11” and is directed to the photoelectric converter, while a portion is reflected and then passes through scintillation crystal 11'-11” to enter the photoelectric converter. If the light is deposited in scintillation crystal 11”, a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, directly passes through scintillation crystal 11” and is directed to the photoelectric converter, while a portion is reflected and then passes through scintillation crystal 11” to enter the photoelectric converter.

[0075] See Figure 8When dielectric 12' is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: If deposited in Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, passes through Cherenkov scintillator 13, Cherenkov scintillator 13', scintillator crystal 11-11', dielectric 12-12', and then reaches the photoelectric converter; if deposited in Cherenkov scintillator 13', the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, passes through Cherenkov scintillator 13', scintillator crystal 11-11', dielectric 12-12', and then reaches the photoelectric converter; if deposited in scintillator crystal 11, a portion of the generated visible light... Visible light, i.e., scintillation light, passes directly through scintillation crystal 11-11' and dielectric 12-12' to the photoelectric converter. A portion of the light is reflected and then passes through scintillation crystal 11-11' and dielectric 12-12' to enter the photoelectric converter. If the light is deposited in scintillation crystal 11', a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., scintillation light, passes directly through scintillation crystal 11' and dielectric 12-12' to the photoelectric converter, while a portion is reflected and then passes through scintillation crystal 11' and dielectric 12-12' to enter the photoelectric converter. If the light is deposited in dielectric 12 or 12', the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it.

[0076] See Figure 9 When the scintillation crystal 11' is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: If deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, passes through the Cherenkov scintillator 13, dielectric 12, scintillation crystal 11, Cherenkov scintillator 13', dielectric 12', and scintillation crystal 11', and then reaches the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the dielectric 12 or 12', the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11, a portion of the generated visible light passes through the scintillation crystal 11, Cherenkov scintillator 13', dielectric 12', and dielectric 11', and then reaches the photoelectric converter; The light from the scintillator 12' and scintillation crystal 11' is directed toward the photoelectric converter. A portion of the light is reflected and then passes through the scintillator 11, Cherenkov scintillator 13', dielectric 12', and scintillation crystal 11' before entering the photoelectric converter. If the light is deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13', the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, passes through the Cherenkov scintillator 13', dielectric 12', and scintillation crystal 11' before entering the photoelectric converter. If the light is deposited in the scintillation crystal 11', a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., scintillation light, passes directly through the scintillation crystal 11' before entering the photoelectric converter, while a portion is reflected and then passes through the scintillation crystal 11' before entering the photoelectric converter.

[0077] See Figure 10When the scintillation crystal 11' is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in dielectric 12, 12', or 12"', the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it; if deposited in scintillation crystal 11', a portion of the generated visible light passes through scintillation crystal 11, Cherenkov scintillator 13, dielectric 12"', and scintillation crystal 11'' to the photoelectric converter, and a portion is reflected and then passes through scintillation crystal 11, Cherenkov scintillator 13, dielectric 12"', and scintillation crystal 11' to enter the photoelectric converter; if deposited in Cherenkov scintillator 13', the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, passes through Cherenkov scintillator 13, dielectric 12"', and scintillation crystal 11' to the photoelectric converter; if deposited in scintillation crystal 11'', a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., scintillation light, directly passes through scintillation crystal 11' to the photoelectric converter, and a portion is reflected and then passes through scintillation crystal 11' to enter the photoelectric converter.

[0078] In some alternative embodiments, the scintillator structure 10 stacked in the first direction includes only two types: scintillator crystal 11 and dielectric 12.

[0079] In some specific examples, the scintillation crystal 11 and dielectric 12 stacked in the first direction are both set to one, and their relative positions are not limited; one can be located on the side of the other along the first direction. Either the scintillation crystal 11 or the dielectric 12 can be coupled to the photoelectric converter, specifically as follows: Figures 11-12 As shown.

[0080] See Figure 11 When the scintillation crystal 11 is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the dielectric 12, the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11, a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, is directly transmitted to the photoelectric converter through the scintillation crystal 11, and a portion is reflected and then transmitted to the photoelectric converter through the scintillation crystal 11.

[0081] See Figure 12 When the dielectric 12 is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11, a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, directly passes through the scintillation crystal 11 and the dielectric 12 and is directed to the photoelectric converter; a portion is reflected and then passes through the scintillation crystal 11 and the dielectric 12 before entering the photoelectric converter. If deposited in the dielectric 12, the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it.

[0082] In other specific examples, at least one of the scintillation crystal 11 and dielectric 12 is provided in multiples. The number of each can be the same or not exactly the same, and the positional relationship between them is not limited; for example, one type can be located to one side of another along a first direction. Some examples are as follows: Figures 13-14 As shown, but not limited to; two types of staggered stacking can also be used along the first direction, some examples are shown below. Figures 15-16 As shown, but not limited to.

[0083] See Figure 13 When the scintillation crystal 11' is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in dielectric 12 or 12', the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it; if deposited in scintillation crystal 11, a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, directly passes through scintillation crystal 11-11' to the photoelectric converter, and a portion is reflected and then passes through scintillation crystal 11-11' into the photoelectric converter; if deposited in scintillation crystal 11', a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, directly passes through scintillation crystal 11'.

[0084] The light is directed toward the photoelectric converter, and a portion of it is reflected and then enters the photoelectric converter through the scintillation crystal 11'.

[0085] See Figure 14 When dielectric 12' is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in scintillation crystal 11, a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., scintillation light, directly passes through scintillation crystal 11, dielectric 12 or 12' to the photoelectric converter, and a portion is reflected and then passes through scintillation crystal 11, dielectric 12 or 12' to the photoelectric converter; if deposited in dielectric 12 or 12', the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it.

[0086] See Figure 15 When the scintillation crystal 11' is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the dielectric 12 or 12', the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11, a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, directly passes through the scintillation crystal 11, the dielectric 12', and the scintillation crystal 11' to the photoelectric converter, and a portion is reflected and then passes through the scintillation crystal 11, the dielectric 12', and the scintillation crystal 11' to enter the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11', a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, directly passes through the scintillation crystal 11' to the photoelectric converter, and a portion is reflected and then passes through the scintillation crystal 11' to enter the photoelectric converter.

[0087] See Figure 16When the dielectric 12' is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the dielectric 12 or 12', the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11, a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, directly passes through the scintillation crystal 11 and the dielectric 12' to the photoelectric converter, and a portion is reflected and then passes through the scintillation crystal 11 and the dielectric 12' to enter the photoelectric converter.

[0088] In some alternative embodiments, the scintillator structure 10 stacked in the first direction includes only two types: scintillator crystal 11 and Cherenkov scintillator 13.

[0089] In some specific examples, the scintillation crystal 11 and Cherenkov scintillator 13 stacked in the first direction are each a single unit, and their relative positions are not limited; one unit can be located on the side of the other along the first direction. Both the scintillation crystal 11 and the Cherenkov scintillator 13 can be coupled to a photoelectric converter, specifically as follows: Figures 17-18 As shown.

[0090] See Figure 17 When the scintillation crystal 11 is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, passes directly through the Cherenkov scintillator 13 and the scintillation crystal 11 to the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11, a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., scintillation light, passes directly through the scintillation crystal 11 to the photoelectric converter, and a portion is reflected and then passes through the scintillation crystal 11 to the photoelectric converter.

[0091] See Figure 18 When the Cherenkov scintillator 13 is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, directly passes through the Cherenkov scintillator 13 and is directed to the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the scintillator crystal 11, a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., scintillator light, directly passes through the scintillator crystal 11 and the Cherenkov scintillator 13 and is directed to the photoelectric converter, while a portion is reflected and passes through the scintillator crystal 11 and the Cherenkov scintillator 13 before entering the photoelectric converter.

[0092] In other specific examples, at least one of the scintillating crystal 11 and Cherenkov scintillator 13 is provided in multiples. The number of each can be the same or not exactly the same, and their positional relationship is not limited; for example, one type can be located to the side of another along a first direction. Some examples are as follows: Figures 19-20 As shown, but not limited to; two types of staggered stacking can also be used along the first direction, some examples are shown below. Figures 21-23 As shown, but not limited to.

[0093] See Figure 19 When the scintillation crystal 11' is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, passes directly through the Cherenkov scintillator 13 and the scintillation crystal 11-11' to the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11, a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, passes directly through the scintillation crystal 11-11' to the photoelectric converter, and a portion is reflected and then passes through the scintillation crystal 11-11' to enter the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11', a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, passes directly through the scintillation crystal 11' to the photoelectric converter, and a portion is reflected and then passes through the scintillation crystal 11' to enter the photoelectric converter.

[0094] See Figure 20 When the Cherenkov scintillator 13' is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: If deposited in the scintillator crystal 11, part of the generated visible light directly passes through the scintillator crystal 11-11' and the Cherenkov scintillator 13-13' to the photoelectric converter, and part of the light is reflected and then passes through the scintillator crystal 11-11' and the Cherenkov scintillator 13-13' to the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the scintillator crystal 11', part of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillator light, directly passes through the scintillator crystal 11' and the Cherenkov scintillator 13-13' to the photoelectric converter, and part of the light is reflected and then passes through the scintillator crystal 11' and the Cherenkov scintillator 13-13' to the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light directly passes through the Cherenkov scintillator 13-13' to the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13', the generated visible light passes through the Cherenkov scintillator 13' to the photoelectric converter.

[0095] See Figure 21When the scintillation crystal 11' is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: If deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light is directly transmitted to the photoelectric converter via the Cherenkov scintillator 13, scintillation crystal 11, Cherenkov scintillator 13', and scintillation crystal 11'; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11, a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, is directly transmitted to the photoelectric converter via the scintillation crystal 11, Cherenkov scintillator 13', and scintillation crystal 11', and a portion is reflected and then transmitted to the photoelectric converter via the scintillation crystal 11, Cherenkov scintillator 13', and scintillation crystal 11'; if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13', the generated visible light is transmitted to the photoelectric converter via the Cherenkov scintillator 13' and scintillation crystal 11'; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11', a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, is directly transmitted to the photoelectric converter via the scintillation crystal 11', and a portion is reflected and then transmitted to the photoelectric converter via the scintillation crystal 11'.

[0096] See Figure 22 When the Cherenkov scintillator 13' is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light directly passes through the Cherenkov scintillator 13, scintillator crystal 11-11', and Cherenkov scintillator 13' to the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the scintillator crystal 11, a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillator light, directly passes through the scintillator crystal 11-11' and Cherenkov scintillator 13' to the photoelectric converter, while a portion is reflected. The light then passes through scintillation crystal 11-11' and Cherenkov scintillator 13' before entering the photoelectric converter. If the light is deposited in scintillation crystal 11', a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, passes directly through scintillation crystal 11' and Cherenkov scintillator 13' before entering the photoelectric converter, while a portion is reflected and then passes through scintillation crystal 11' and Cherenkov scintillator 13' before entering the photoelectric converter. If the light is deposited in Cherenkov scintillator 13', the generated visible light passes through Cherenkov scintillator 13' before entering the photoelectric converter.

[0097] See Figure 23When the scintillation crystal 11' is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: If deposited in the scintillation crystal 11, a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, directly passes through the scintillation crystal 11, the Cherenkov scintillator 13, and the scintillation crystal 11' to the photoelectric converter, and a portion is reflected and then passes through the scintillation crystal 11, the Cherenkov scintillator 13, and the scintillation crystal 11' to enter the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light directly passes through the Cherenkov scintillator 13 and the scintillation crystal 11' to enter the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11', a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, directly passes through the scintillation crystal 11' to enter the photoelectric converter, and a portion is reflected and then passes through the scintillation crystal 11' to enter the photoelectric converter.

[0098] As further exemplified, continue to refer to Figure 1 In the example shown, the thicknesses of dielectric 12, Cherenkov scintillator 13, and scintillator crystal 11 are d1, d2, and d3, respectively. Assume that N high-energy rays are deposited in the scintillator structure 10. What is the probability of high-energy rays being deposited in the three types of scintillators?

[0099] Proportional to the thickness, the number of particles deposited in dielectric 12, Cherenkov scintillator 13, and scintillator crystal 11 are respectively

[0100]

[0101] The high-energy rays deposited in dielectric 12 and Cherenkov scintillator 13 have high time resolution, and the high-energy rays deposited in scintillator crystal 11 have high energy resolution.

[0102] Furthermore, regarding the arrangement of the scintillation crystal 11 with the dielectric 12 and / or the Cherenkov scintillator 13 according to a preset rule, in some embodiments of this application, the scintillation crystal 11 and the dielectric 12 and / or the Cherenkov scintillator 13 are stacked in a second direction. Regarding "second..."

[0103] In some embodiments, the term "direction," similar to "first direction," can be determined based on coordinate axes. In some specific examples, such as... Figures 24-43 As shown in the figure, referring to the coordinate axes, the second direction is determined based on the coordinate axes, for example, the X-axis direction. Specifically, for example, when the outer surface of the scintillator structure 10 is all planar, the direction of the coupling contact plane between the scintillator structure 10 and the photoelectric converter can be defined as the X-axis direction, and the X-axis direction can be defined as the second direction.

[0104] It should be noted that, regarding the stacking of the scintillator crystal 11 with the dielectric 12 and / or the Cherenkov scintillator 13 in the second direction, the scintillator structure 10 can have different alternative implementations.

[0105] In some embodiments, the scintillator structure 10 stacked in the second direction simultaneously includes a scintillator crystal 11, a dielectric 12, and a Cherenkov scintillator 13.

[0106] In some specific embodiments, the scintillator structure 10 includes one scintillator crystal 11, one dielectric 12, and one Cherenkov scintillator 13, and the positional relationship between them is not limited. One of them can be located between the other two, as shown in the example below. Figures 24-29 As shown.

[0107] In a specific example, the scintillator structure 10 may be a scintillator crystal 11 located between the Cherenkov scintillator 13 and the dielectric 12. For example, as... Figure 24 As shown, the Cherenkov scintillator 13, scintillator crystal 11, and dielectric 12 are arranged sequentially along the second direction, wherein the Cherenkov scintillator 13, scintillator crystal 11, and dielectric 12 are all coupled to the photoelectric converter. The transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light (i.e., Cherenkov light) reaches the photoelectric converter through the Cherenkov scintillator 13; if deposited in the scintillator crystal 11, part of the generated visible light (i.e., scintillator light) directly hits the photoelectric converter, and part is reflected and then passes through the scintillator crystal 11 into the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the dielectric 12, the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it.

[0108] exist Figure 24 In supplementary examples to the example shown, such as Figure 25 As shown, the scintillator structure 10 can also be arranged sequentially along the second direction in the order of dielectric 12, scintillator crystal 11, and Cherenkov scintillator 13, wherein dielectric 12, scintillator crystal 11, and Cherenkov scintillator 13 are all coupled to the photoelectric converter. The transmission process of the incident high-energy rays can be referred to... Figure 24 Examples are provided, but will not be elaborated upon here.

[0109] In a specific example, the scintillator structure 10 could also be a Cherenkov scintillator 13 located between the scintillator crystal 11 and the dielectric 12. For example, as... Figure 26 As shown, along the second direction, the elements are arranged in the order of scintillation crystal 11, Cherenkov scintillator 13, and dielectric 12, wherein the scintillation crystal 11, Cherenkov scintillator 13, and dielectric 12 are all coupled to the photoelectric converter. The transmission process of the incident high-energy rays can be referenced... Figure 24 Examples are provided, but will not be elaborated upon here.

[0110] exist Figure 26 In supplementary examples to the example shown, such as Figure 27As shown, the scintillator structure 10 can also be arranged sequentially along the second direction in the order of dielectric 12, Cherenkov scintillator 13, and scintillator crystal 11, wherein dielectric 12, Cherenkov scintillator 13, and scintillator crystal 11 are all coupled to the photoelectric converter. The transmission process of the incident high-energy rays can be referred to... Figure 24 Examples are provided, but will not be elaborated upon here.

[0111] In a specific example, the scintillator structure 10 can also be a dielectric 12 located between the scintillator crystal 11 and the Cherenkov scintillator 13. For example, as Figure 28 As shown, the components are arranged sequentially along the second direction: scintillation crystal 11, dielectric 12, and Cherenkov scintillator 13. Each of these components is coupled to a photoelectric converter. The transmission process of the incident high-energy rays can be referenced... Figure 24 Examples are provided, but will not be elaborated upon here.

[0112] In the supplementary example shown in the figure, such as Figure 29 As shown, the scintillator structure 10 can also be arranged sequentially along the second direction in the order of Cherenkov scintillator 13, dielectric 12, and scintillator crystal 11, wherein the Cherenkov scintillator 13, dielectric 12, and scintillator crystal 11 are all coupled to the photoelectric converter. The transmission process of the incident high-energy rays can be referred to... Figure 24 Examples are provided, but will not be elaborated upon here.

[0113] In other specific embodiments, at least one of the scintillating crystal 11, dielectric 12, and Cherenkov scintillator 13 is provided in multiple configurations, and their relative positions are not limited. One of them can be located between the other two. Some examples are as follows: Figures 30-32 As shown, but not limited to; three types of staggered stacking can also be used along the second direction, some examples are shown below. Figures 33-35 As shown, but not limited to. Among them, Figures 30-35 The transmission process of incident high-energy rays can be referenced. Figure 24 Examples are provided, but will not be elaborated upon here.

[0114] In some alternative embodiments, the scintillator structure 10 stacked in the second direction includes only two types: scintillator crystal 11 and dielectric 12.

[0115] In some specific examples, the scintillation crystal 11 and dielectric 12 stacked in the second direction are both single units, and their relative positions are not limited; one unit can be located on the side of the other along the second direction. Either the scintillation crystal 11 or the dielectric 12 can be coupled to the photoelectric converter, as shown in the following examples. Figures 36-37 As shown. Among them, Figures 36-37 The transmission process of incident high-energy rays can be referenced. Figure 24 Examples are provided, but will not be elaborated upon here.

[0116] In other specific examples, at least one of the scintillation crystal 11 and dielectric 12 is provided in multiple configurations. The positional relationship between them is not limited; one may be located on one side of another along the second direction, as shown in some examples. Figures 38-40 As shown, but not limited to; two types of staggered stacking can also be used along the second direction, some examples are shown below. Figures 41-43 As shown, but not limited to. Among them, Figures 38-43 The transmission process of incident high-energy rays can be referenced. Figure 24 Examples are provided, but will not be elaborated upon here.

[0117] In some alternative embodiments, the scintillator structure 10 stacked in the second direction includes only two types: scintillator crystal 11 and Cherenkov scintillator 13.

[0118] In some specific examples, the scintillation crystal 11 and Cherenkov scintillator 13 stacked in the second direction are each configured as a single unit, without limiting their relative positions; one can be located on the side of the other along the second direction. Either the scintillation crystal 11 or the Cherenkov scintillator 13 can be coupled to a photoelectric converter.

[0119] In other specific examples, at least one of the scintillation crystals 11 and Cherenkov scintillators 13 is configured as multiple. The positional relationship between them is not limited; one type may be located on one side of another along the second direction, or the two types may be staggered and stacked along the second direction.

[0120] Specifically, the scintillator structure 10 includes only two design options: scintillator crystal 11 and Cherenkov scintillator 13. This can be referred to in the design option above, which includes only scintillator crystal 11 and dielectric 12. It will not be elaborated here.

[0121] Furthermore, regarding the arrangement of the scintillation crystal 11 with the dielectric 12 and / or the Cherenkov scintillator 13 according to a preset rule, in some embodiments of this application, the scintillation crystal 11 and the dielectric 12 and / or the Cherenkov scintillator 13 are at least partially stacked in a first direction and at least partially stacked in a second direction different from the first direction. The first and second directions are determined based on preset coordinate axes, as detailed above, and will not be repeated here.

[0122] In some embodiments, the scintillation crystal 11 and dielectric 12 and / or Cherenkov scintillator 13 stacked simultaneously according to the first and second directions may include both scintillation crystal 11 and dielectric 12 and Cherenkov scintillator 13, or may include only scintillation crystal 11 and dielectric 12, or only scintillation crystal 11 and Cherenkov scintillator 13. The positional relationship between them is not limited; they can be arranged sequentially according to type according to the first and second directions, or they can be stacked alternately according to the first and second directions. Some examples are shown below. Figures 44-54 As shown, but not limited to.

[0123] See Figure 44 When the scintillation crystal 11 is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, passes through the Cherenkov scintillator 13 and the scintillation crystal 11 to reach the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the dielectric 12, the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11, part of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, passes directly through the scintillation crystal 11 to the photoelectric converter, and part of it is reflected and then passes through the scintillation crystal 11 to enter the photoelectric converter.

[0124] See Figure 45 When the Cherenkov scintillator 13 is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, reaches the photoelectric converter after passing through the Cherenkov scintillator 13; if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13', the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, reaches the photoelectric converter after passing through the Cherenkov scintillators 13' and 13'; if deposited in the scintillator crystal 11, a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., scintillator light, is directly split into three paths that enter the Cherenkov scintillator 13', dielectric 12, and scintillator crystal 11' respectively, and then reach the Cherenkov scintillator 13'. The light is emitted from the scintillator 13 and then directed towards the photoelectric converter. After reflection, a portion of the light is split into three paths, entering the Cherenkov scintillator 13', the dielectric 12, and the scintillator crystal 11' respectively, before reaching the Cherenkov scintillator 13 and then entering the photoelectric converter. If the light is deposited in the scintillator crystal 11', a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillator light, passes directly through the scintillator crystal 11' and the Cherenkov scintillator 13 to the photoelectric converter, while another portion is reflected and passes through the scintillator crystal 11' and the Cherenkov scintillator 13 before entering the photoelectric converter. If the light is deposited in the dielectric 12, the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it.

[0125] See Figure 48When dielectrics 12-12' are simultaneously coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in dielectric 12-12", the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it; if deposited in Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, passes through Cherenkov scintillator 13 and dielectric 12 to reach the photoelectric converter; if deposited in scintillator crystal 11, part of the generated visible light, i.e., scintillator light, directly passes through scintillator crystal 11 and dielectric 12 to reach the photoelectric converter, and part of it is reflected and then passes through scintillator crystal 11 and dielectric 12 to enter the photoelectric converter; if deposited in scintillator crystal 11', part of the generated visible light, i.e., scintillator light, directly passes through scintillator crystal 11' and dielectric 12' to reach the photoelectric converter, and part of it is reflected and then passes through scintillator crystal 11' and dielectric 12' to enter the photoelectric converter.

[0126] See Figure 53 When scintillation crystal 11 and Cherenkov scintillator 13” are simultaneously coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: If deposited in dielectric 12-12”, the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it; if deposited in Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, passes through Cherenkov scintillator 13 and scintillation crystal 11 to reach the photoelectric converter; if deposited in Cherenkov scintillator 13', the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, passes through Cherenkov scintillator 13'-13” to reach the photoelectric converter; if deposited in Cherenkov scintillator 13”, the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, passes through Cherenkov scintillator 13” to reach the photoelectric converter; if deposited in scintillation crystal 11, a portion of the generated visible light, i.e., scintillation light, directly passes through scintillation crystal 11 to reach the photoelectric converter. The light generated by the scintillator is reflected and then enters the photoelectric converter through the scintillator crystal 11. If the light is deposited in the scintillator crystal 11', then part of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillator light, directly passes through the scintillator crystal 11'-11", dielectric 12'-12", and Cherenkov scintillator 13'-13" to the photoelectric converter, and part of the light is reflected and then enters the photoelectric converter through the scintillator crystal 11'-11", dielectric 12'-12", and Cherenkov scintillator 13'-13". If the light is deposited in the scintillator crystal 11", then part of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillator light, directly passes through the scintillator crystal 11", dielectric 12'-12", and Cherenkov scintillator 13'-13" to the photoelectric converter, and part of the light is reflected and then enters the photoelectric converter through the scintillator crystal 11"", dielectric 12'-12", and Cherenkov scintillator 13'-13".

[0127] See Figure 54When the scintillation crystal 11 is coupled to the photoelectric converter, the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: If deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, passes through the Cherenkov scintillator 13 and the scintillation crystal 11 to reach the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11, part of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, directly passes through the scintillation crystal 11 to the photoelectric converter, and part of it is reflected and then passes through the scintillation crystal 11 to enter the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11', part of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, directly passes through the scintillation crystal 11'. The light emitted from 11' and 11' is directed towards the photoelectric converter. A portion of the light is reflected and then passes through scintillation crystals 11' and 11' before entering the photoelectric converter. If the light is deposited in scintillation crystal 11', the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, is split into two paths that enter scintillation crystal 11' and dielectric 12 respectively, and then reach scintillation crystal 11. The light then travels towards the photoelectric converter. Another portion of the light is reflected and then split into two paths that enter scintillation crystal 11' and dielectric 12 respectively, and then reach scintillation crystal 11' before entering the photoelectric converter. If the light is deposited in dielectric 12, the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it.

[0128] It should be noted that in other examples not shown in this application, the specific structure of the scintillator structure 10 and the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays can refer to the ideas in the above examples.

[0129] Furthermore, regarding the arrangement of the scintillation crystal 11 with the dielectric 12 and / or the Cherenkov scintillator 13 according to a preset rule, in some embodiments of this application, the scintillation crystal 11 and the dielectric 12 and / or the Cherenkov scintillator 13 are inlaid by wrapping around each other. Some examples are as follows: Figures 55-58 As shown, but not limited to.

[0130] See Figure 55 A scintillation crystal 11 is wrapped around the outer surface of a dielectric material 12, and a Cherenkov scintillator 13 is wrapped around the outer surface of the scintillation crystal 11. The Cherenkov scintillator 13 is in coupling contact with the photoelectric converter. The transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light (i.e., Cherenkov light) reaches the photoelectric converter via the Cherenkov scintillator 13; if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11, part of the generated visible light (i.e., scintillation light) directly passes through the scintillation crystal 11 and the Cherenkov scintillator 13 to the photoelectric converter, and part is reflected and then passes through the scintillation crystal 11 and the Cherenkov scintillator 13 to enter the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the dielectric material 12, the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it.

[0131] See Figure 57The dielectric 12 is wrapped around the outer surface of the scintillation crystal 11 and is in coupling contact with the photoelectric converter. The transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the scintillation crystal 11, part of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillation light, directly passes through the scintillation crystal 11 and the dielectric 12 and is directed to the photoelectric converter, while part is reflected and passes through the scintillation crystal 11 and the dielectric 12 before entering the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the dielectric 12, the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it.

[0132] See Figure 58 Dielectric 12 is wrapped around the outer surface of scintillation crystal 11, scintillation crystal 11' is wrapped around the outer surface of dielectric 12, Cherenkov scintillator 13 is wrapped around the outer surface of scintillation crystal 11', and Cherenkov scintillator 13 is coupled to the photoelectric converter. The transmission process of the incident high-energy rays is as follows: if deposited in the Cherenkov scintillator 13, the generated visible light, i.e., Cherenkov light, reaches the photoelectric converter through the Cherenkov scintillator 13; if deposited in the scintillator crystal 11, part of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillator light, directly passes through the scintillator crystal 11, dielectric 12, scintillator crystal 11', and Cherenkov scintillator 13 to the photoelectric converter, and part of it is reflected and then passes through the scintillator crystal 11, dielectric 12, scintillator crystal 11', and Cherenkov scintillator 13 to enter the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the scintillator crystal 11', part of the generated visible light, i.e., the scintillator light, directly passes through the scintillator crystal 11' and Cherenkov scintillator 13 to the photoelectric converter, and part of it is reflected and then passes through the scintillator crystal 11' and Cherenkov scintillator 13 to enter the photoelectric converter; if deposited in the dielectric 12, the generated electrical signal is read out through the signal readout path connected to it.

[0133] It should be noted that in other examples not shown in this application, the specific structure of the scintillator structure 10 and the transmission process of the incident high-energy rays can refer to the ideas in the above examples.

[0134] In an extended example, an adhesive is provided between the scintillator 11 and the Cherenkov scintillator 13 and / or the dielectric 12. The adhesive is transparent. Specifically, the adhesive includes, but is not limited to, at least one of polyurethane, polystyrene, polyacrylate, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, and photocurable resin. The adhesive can fix the scintillator 11 and the Cherenkov scintillator 13 and / or the dielectric 12 together to form a scintillator structure 10 with a predetermined structure. To ensure the transparency of the adhesive and not affect light transmission, the thickness of the adhesive is typically 0.1-0.5 mm.

[0135] For example, the shapes of the scintillating crystal 11, dielectric 12, Cherenkov scintillator 13, and scintillator structure 10 can all be cuboids / cubes, or triangular prisms, pentagonal prisms, hexagonal prisms, cylinders, spheres / ellipsoids, irregular bodies, etc.

[0136] Figure 59 A flowchart illustrating the acquisition process of dielectric signals according to an example embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 59 As shown, the readout, digitization, and analysis of dielectric signals can be performed using the following logic:

[0137] S110: Read out the electrical signal of the change in dielectric constant caused by the interaction of high-energy rays with a dielectric material using one of the following methods: lumped circuit method, transmission line method, resonance method, streak camera method, or free space wave method.

[0138] S120: Converts electrical signals into digital signals using an analog-to-digital converter; S130: ...

[0139] The arrival time of high-energy rays can be obtained using rise time discrimination (LED) or constant ratio time discrimination (CFD) methods. It is important to note that when dielectric signals are transmitted...

[0140] When reading out using the line method, the dielectric material

[0141] 12. Connected to the data processing system via a transmission line.

[0142] Figure 60 A flowchart illustrating the acquisition process of Cherenkov scintillator and scintillation crystal signals according to an example embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 60 As shown, the readout, digitization, resolution, and analysis of Cherenkov scintillator and scintillation crystal signals can be performed using the following logic:

[0143] S210: The high-energy rays and the Cherenkov light and scintillation light signals generated by the Cherenkov scintillator and scintillation crystal are read out in the form of electrical signals through a photoelectric converter;

[0144] S220: Converts electrical signals into digital signals using an analog-to-digital converter; S230: ...

[0145] The signals of Cherenkov scintillators and scintillation crystals can be distinguished by pulse width, decay time, and rise time.

[0146] S240: The arrival time of high-energy rays is obtained through methods such as rise time discrimination (LED) and constant ratio time discrimination (CFD);

[0147] S250: The energy of high-energy rays is obtained through one or more methods, including numerical integration, fitted integration, peak sampling, or pulse width extraction. This allows for simultaneous readings within the same detection unit.

[0148] Output dielectric signal, Cherenkov scintillation

[0149] Visible light signals from the body and scintillation crystal.

[0150] The scintillator structure 10 provided in this application combines a scintillator crystal 11 with at least one of a dielectric material 12 and a Cherenkov scintillator 13. During detection, a portion of the incident high-energy rays are deposited in the scintillator crystal 11, and another portion is deposited in the dielectric material 12 or the Cherenkov scintillator 13, or in both the dielectric material 12 and the Cherenkov scintillator 13. The high-energy rays deposited in the scintillator crystal 11 provide high energy resolution for imaging, while the high-energy rays deposited in the dielectric material 12 and the Cherenkov scintillator 13 provide high temporal resolution for imaging. The combination of these two components constitutes heterogeneous detection data, which can provide a certain proportion of high energy resolution and high temporal resolution data, thereby providing higher image quality in imaging applications.

[0151] In subsequent image reconstruction, a rough image can be obtained first using high energy resolution data. This prior information can then be used to perform scattering and attenuation correction on high temporal resolution data. High temporal resolution data can be used to refine the image, improve image quality, and enhance imaging signal-to-noise ratio and spatial resolution.

[0152] Corresponding to the scintillator structure 10 described above, one example of this application also provides a detection unit. The detection unit provided in this application includes the scintillator structure 10 and a photoelectric converter. The scintillator structure 10 includes at least one scintillator crystal 11, and also includes at least one dielectric 12 and / or at least one Cherenkov scintillator 13. The scintillator crystal 11 and the dielectric 12 and / or Cherenkov scintillator 13 are arranged according to a preset rule.

[0153] In some embodiments, the photoelectric converter is coupled to the scintillator structure 10. Specifically, the photoelectric converter may be coupled to at least one of the scintillator crystal 11, dielectric 12, and Cherenkov scintillator 13 to convert Cherenkov light and / or scintillator light (both visible light) generated by high-energy rays deposited on the scintillator crystal 11 and / or Cherenkov scintillator 13 into electrical signals.

[0154] For example, the photoelectric converter is a photomultiplier tube, a silicon photomultiplier tube, or a superconducting nanowire single-photon detector. It should be noted that the superconducting nanowire single-photon detector is primarily made of superconducting nanowires. Superconducting nanowires refer to linear superconductors with a cross-section at the nanoscale, which may be made of metal or compounds containing metallic elements, and exhibit superconductivity (zero resistivity) and superconducting diamagnetism at low temperatures.

[0155] As a further example, the superconducting nanowires are made of at least one of niobium titanium nitride (NbTiN), niobium nitride (NbN), niobium silicon nitride (NbSiN), niobium rhenium nitride (NbReN), and silicon tungsten (WSi).

[0156] Compared to other photoelectric converters, superconducting nanowires have zero resistance, which can minimize the degradation of time and energy resolution caused by changes in electrical signals in other photoelectric converters.

[0157] Furthermore, when the photoelectric converter is a superconducting nanowire single-photon detector, the superconducting nanowire single-photon detector is embedded in the scintillator structure 10.

[0158] In some embodiments, the scintillator structure in the detection unit can be specifically referred to in the embodiment of scintillator structure 10 described above (specifically as follows). Figures 1-58 (As shown in the example), we will not elaborate further here.

[0159] In some examples of this application, an optical coupler is provided between the scintillator structure 10 and the photoelectric converter, and the difference between the refractive index of the optical coupler and the refractive index of the scintillator crystal 11 or Cherenkov scintillator 13 is less than a preset value. This preset value approaches zero. This arrangement can solve the problem of difficult optical reflection between the coupling surfaces of the scintillator structure 10 and the photoelectric converter.

[0160] Specifically, in one example of this application, the optical coupling agent includes at least one of silicone grease and photocurable resin, but is not limited thereto.

[0161] In some examples of this application, an optical isolation layer is provided on the outer surface of the scintillator structure 10 to prevent the visible light generated by the scintillator crystal 11 or Cherenkov scintillator 13 in the scintillator structure 10 from escaping, so that the visible light can smoothly enter the photoelectric converter and be converted into an electrical signal.

[0162] Specifically, in one example of this application, the optical isolation layer is made of at least one of aluminum foil, barium sulfate, polytetrafluoroethylene, and titanium dioxide.

[0163] The detection unit provided in this application can be applied to scenarios such as positron emission tomography, single-photon emission tomography, petroleum neutron logging, high-energy physics and space physics detection.

[0164] The detection unit provided in this application combines a scintillation crystal 11 with at least one of a dielectric material 12 and a Cherenkov scintillator 13. During detection, a portion of the incident high-energy rays are deposited in the scintillation crystal 11, and another portion is deposited in the dielectric material 12 or the Cherenkov scintillator 13, or in both the dielectric material 12 and the Cherenkov scintillator 13. The high-energy rays deposited in the scintillation crystal 11 provide high energy resolution for imaging, while the high-energy rays deposited in the dielectric material 12 and the Cherenkov scintillator 13 provide high temporal resolution for imaging. The combination of these two types of rays constitutes heterogeneous detection data, which can provide a certain proportion of high energy resolution and high temporal resolution data, thereby providing higher image quality in imaging applications.

[0165] Corresponding to the detection units described above, one example of this application also provides a detector. The detector provided by this application includes an array composed of the detection units provided in any of the above examples, and the number of detection units in the array can be selected as needed.

[0166] In some embodiments, the array may consist of detector units with the same structure. In some alternative embodiments, the array may also consist of detector units with different structures. Special considerations are required.

[0167] It should be noted that although the structures of the individual detection units in the array included in the detector of this application embodiment may be the same or different, each detection unit includes the scintillator structure 10 provided in the above example, to be used in conjunction with at least one of the scintillator crystal 11 and the dielectric 12 and the Cherenkov scintillator 13. During detection, a portion of the incident high-energy rays are deposited in the scintillator crystal 11, and another portion is deposited in the dielectric 12 or the Cherenkov scintillator 13, or in both the dielectric 12 and the Cherenkov scintillator 13. The high-energy rays deposited in the scintillator crystal 11 can provide higher energy resolution for imaging, while the high-energy rays deposited in the dielectric 12 and the Cherenkov scintillator 13 can provide higher temporal resolution for imaging. The combination of the two constitutes heterogeneous detection data, which can provide a certain proportion of high energy resolution and high temporal resolution data, thereby providing higher image quality in imaging applications.

[0168] The detector provided in this application can be applied to scenarios such as positron emission tomography, single-photon emission tomography, petroleum neutron logging, high-energy physics, and space physics.

[0169] Taking positron emission tomography (PET) as an example, the dielectric 12 in the detector is connected to the data processing system in the server via a transmission line, and the scintillation crystal 11 and / or Cherenkov scintillator 13 are coupled to the photoelectric converter. The detector converts high-energy rays into electrical signals, and the data processing system processes the electrical signals to accurately extract the position, energy, and time information of the original signal in a digital manner. The digitized information is then sent to the back-end server, where the original waveform is restored by fitting, key information is extracted, and conformance processing is performed for image reconstruction.

[0170] In positron emission tomography (PET) scenarios, the scintillation pulses output from the photoelectric converter are ultimately digitized by a multi-voltage threshold sampling method to convert the analog electrical signal into digital samples. The sampled data is then sent to a server for image reconstruction. Before sampling, multiple voltage thresholds need to be preset using a digital-to-analog converter (DAC). By recording the time information of the scintillation pulse signal crossing these voltage thresholds, a series of "time-voltage" pairs are obtained. Then, combined with prior information about the scintillation pulses, the original information of the pulses is restored by fitting.

[0171] According to the detector provided in this application, in subsequent image reconstruction, a rough image can be obtained first through high energy resolution data. This image can then be used as prior information to perform scattering correction and attenuation correction on high temporal resolution data. High temporal resolution data can be used to refine the image, improve image quality, and enhance imaging signal-to-noise ratio and spatial resolution.

[0172] Corresponding to the detector described above, one example of this application also provides a detection device, including the detector provided in the above example. The detection device provided in this application can be applied to scenarios such as positron emission tomography, single-photon emission tomography, petroleum neutron logging, high-energy physics, and space physics.

[0173] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner. The same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to each other. Each embodiment focuses on describing the differences from other embodiments.

[0174] The embodiments of this application have been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The descriptions of the embodiments above are only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of this application. Furthermore, any changes or modifications made by those skilled in the art based on the ideas of this application, and on the specific implementation methods and application scope of this application, are all within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

Claims

1. A scintillator structure, characterized in that, The scintillator structure includes: At least one scintillation crystal, further comprising at least one dielectric constant body and / or at least one Cherenkov scintillation body; The scintillation crystal and the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator are arranged according to a preset rule.

2. The scintillator structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The scintillation crystal is stacked with the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator in a first direction.

3. The scintillator structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The scintillation crystal is stacked with the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator in a second direction.

4. The scintillator structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The scintillation crystal is at least partially stacked with the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator in a first direction and at least partially stacked in a second direction different from the first direction.

5. The scintillator structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The scintillation crystal is embedded in the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator by wrapping around it.

6. The scintillator structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The scintillation crystal is made of at least one of LYSO, YSO, LSO, BGO and NaI.

7. The scintillator structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The Cherenkov scintillator is made of at least one of glass and transparent plastic.

8. The scintillator structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dielectric is made of at least one of silicon dioxide and barium titanate.

9. The scintillator structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, An adhesive is provided between the scintillation crystal and the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator.

10. The scintillator structure according to claim 9, characterized in that, The adhesive includes at least one of polyurethane, polystyrene, polyacrylate, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, and photocurable resin.

11. A detection unit, characterized in that, The detection unit includes a scintillator structure and a photoelectric converter; The scintillator structure includes at least one scintillator crystal, and also includes at least one dielectric and / or at least one Cherenkov scintillator; The scintillation crystal and the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator are arranged according to a preset rule; The photoelectric converter is coupled to at least one of the scintillation crystal, the dielectric, and the Cherenkov scintillator.

12. The detection unit according to claim 11, characterized in that, The scintillation crystal is stacked with the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator in a first direction.

13. The detection unit according to claim 11, characterized in that, The scintillation crystal is stacked with the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator in a second direction.

14. The detection unit according to claim 11, characterized in that, The scintillation crystal is at least partially stacked with the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator in a first direction and at least partially stacked in a second direction different from the first direction.

15. The detection unit according to claim 11, characterized in that, The scintillation crystal is embedded in the dielectric and / or the Cherenkov scintillator by wrapping around it.

16. The detection unit according to claim 11, characterized in that, The scintillation crystal is coupled to the photoelectric converter; or... The assembly formed by the scintillation crystal and the Cherenkov scintillator is coupled to the photoelectric converter.

17. The detection unit according to claim 11, characterized in that, An optical coupling agent is provided between the scintillator structure and the photoelectric converter, and the difference between the refractive index of the optical coupling agent and the refractive index of the scintillator crystal or the Cherenkov scintillator is less than a preset value.

18. The detection unit according to claim 17, characterized in that, The optical coupling agent includes at least one of silicone grease and photocurable resin.

19. The detection unit according to claim 11, characterized in that, The scintillation crystal is made of at least one of LYSO, YSO, LSO, BGO and NaI.

20. The detection unit according to claim 11, characterized in that, The Cherenkov scintillator is made of at least one of glass and transparent plastic.

21. The detection unit according to claim 11, characterized in that, The dielectric is made of at least one of silicon dioxide and barium titanate.

22. The detection unit according to claim 11, characterized in that, An optical isolation layer is provided on the outer surface of the scintillator structure.

23. The detection unit according to claim 22, characterized in that, The optical isolation layer is made of at least one of aluminum foil, barium sulfate, polytetrafluoroethylene, and titanium dioxide.

24. The detection unit according to claim 11, characterized in that, The photoelectric converter includes a photomultiplier tube, a silicon photomultiplier tube, or a superconducting nanowire single-photon detector.

25. A detector, characterized in that, The detector comprises an array of detection units as described in any one of claims 11 to 24.

26. The detector according to claim 25, characterized in that, The array consists of detection units with the same structure.

27. The detector according to claim 25, characterized in that, The array is composed of detection units with different structures.

28. A detection device, characterized in that, The detection device includes the detector described in any one of claims 25-27.

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