Time-resolved spectrum measurement method and apparatus based on multi-event time-to-digital converter, device, and medium

Abstract

The present application relates to a time-resolved spectrum measurement method and apparatus based on a multi-event time-to-digital converter, a device, and a medium. The method comprises: a multi-event time-to-digital converter performs histogram statistics on photon signals, which are responded at different times and correspond to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes, in different laser pulse periods, so as to determine photon signal distributions of a photon signal of a specific wavelength corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in the different laser pulse periods; and the multi-event time-to-digital converter performs delayed merging on the photon signal distributions in the different laser pulse periods to determine a photon lifetime curve corresponding to the photon signal of a specific wavelength corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes, and integrates the photon lifetime curve corresponding to the photon signal of a specific wavelength corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes to construct a time-resolved spectrum of a sample to be measured. The present application can reduce the count loss or time error caused by dead time.

Description

Time-resolved spectral measurement method, apparatus, equipment, and medium based on multi-event time-to-number converter. Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of single-photon counting, and more particularly to a time-resolved spectral measurement method based on a multi-event time-to-count converter, a corresponding device, electronic equipment, and a computer-readable storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] Time-correlated single-photon counting (TCSPC) technology is used in time-resolved fluorescence, Raman spectroscopy and fluorescence lifetime detection, and has the advantages of high time resolution and high signal-to-noise ratio. Using a single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) array and a time-to-digital converter (TDC) is a highly efficient, compact and advanced TCSPC solution.

[0003] Single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) arrays have various pixel structures. For spectral and fluorescence lifetime detection, a one-dimensional SPAD linear array can complete signal extraction. Separating the photosensitive element and the circuitry helps improve the fill factor of the detector, such as a 128×1 pixel array or a single-row linear array with more pixels, using a 128×1 pixel photosensitive element to correspond to 128×1 counting circuits outside the pixel. To improve the signal-to-noise ratio of the count, multi-row linear arrays such as 128×4 arrays, 128×8 arrays, or multi-row linear arrays with more pixels are typically used, with the detector signals in the same column connected in parallel to a time-to-digital converter (TDC) for timing.

[0004] Compared to the method of configuring an independent TDC for a single pixel, the method of using a single TDC for multiple rows of linear array pixels in parallel is no different in low light environments. However, when the light signal is strong, the single-row linear array method is affected by the pileup effect caused by the dead time of the single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD). The pileup effect refers to the fact that multiple photon signals enter the detector at the same time or very close to the time, causing the detector to be unable to distinguish each photon signal. Furthermore, the parallel output of the multi-row linear array method will cause the electrical pulses of multiple single-photon avalanche diodes (SPADs) in parallel to be superimposed into a single pulse with a higher voltage amplitude. This makes the time-to-digital converter (TDC) recognize it as a single pulse signal, thereby reducing the signal-to-noise ratio of the count and affecting the linearity of the time lifetime.

[0005] In summary, existing technologies for single-row linear arrays are affected by the pileup effect caused by the dead time of single-photon avalanche diodes (SPADs) when the optical signal is strong. Multiple photon signals enter the detector at the same time or very close to the time, causing the detector to be unable to distinguish each photon signal. Parallel output of multiple linear arrays can lead to the superposition of multiple electrical pulses, which the time-to-digital converter (TDC) will recognize as a single pulse, thereby reducing the signal-to-noise ratio of counting and affecting the linearity of the lifetime. This application explores solutions to these problems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this application is to solve the above-mentioned problems by providing a time-resolved spectral measurement method, corresponding apparatus, electronic equipment, and computer-readable storage medium based on a multi-event time-to-time converter.

[0007] To achieve the various objectives of this application, the following technical solution is adopted:

[0008] A time-resolved spectral measurement method based on a multi-event time-to-number converter, proposed to meet one of the purposes of this application, includes:

[0009] The response time-resolved spectral measurement command uses a pulsed laser to emit laser light onto the sample to be tested according to a preset laser pulse period, in order to determine the synchronization pulse signal corresponding to the laser pulse period;

[0010] The synchronization pulse signal is used to trigger a multi-event time-to-count converter to receive photon signals with different time responses corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in the single-photon avalanche diode array within the laser pulse period. Each column of single-photon avalanche diodes receives a pixel column of the same wavelength. Each column of single-photon avalanche diodes includes multiple single-photon avalanche diodes. The multi-event time-to-count converter includes multiple single-column multi-event time-to-count converters, and each single-column multi-event time-to-count converter corresponds one-to-one with each column of single-photon avalanche diodes.

[0011] The multi-event time-to-number converter performs histogram statistics on the photon signals of different time responses in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods, so as to determine the photon signal distribution of a specific wavelength corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods.

[0012] The multi-event time-to-number converter delays and combines the photon signal distributions within different laser pulse periods to determine the photon lifetime curve corresponding to the photon signal of a specific wavelength in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes. The photon lifetime curves corresponding to the photon signal of a specific wavelength in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes are integrated to construct the time-resolved spectrum of the sample to be tested, thereby completing the measurement of the time-resolved spectrum based on the multi-event time-to-number converter.

[0013] Optionally, the step of using a pulsed laser to emit laser light onto the sample to be tested according to a preset laser pulse period, in order to determine the synchronization pulse signal corresponding to the laser pulse period, includes:

[0014] The pulsed laser emits laser pulses to the sample to be tested according to a preset laser pulse period to excite the sample to emit Raman scattering and fluorescence signals, wherein the laser pulse period is determined by the frequency of the laser pulse;

[0015] The Raman scattering and fluorescence signals of the sample to be tested are dispersed and split by the spectral system and then irradiated onto the single-photon avalanche diode array.

[0016] Optionally, before the step of triggering a multi-event time-to-time converter with the synchronization pulse signal to receive photon signals corresponding to different time responses of each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in the single-photon avalanche diode array within the laser pulse period, the method includes:

[0017] In response to the calibration command of the spectral system, the spectrometer decomposes the light emitted by the mercury lamp into photon signals of different wavelengths and maps the photon signals of different wavelengths onto the single-photon avalanche diode array. Each wavelength of photon signal will form a narrow vertical bright fringe on the detection surface to form multiple narrow vertical bright fringe, wherein each vertical bright fringe represents a photon signal of one wavelength.

[0018] The single-photon avalanche diode array acquires the position of each pixel and its corresponding spectral information to record the brightness information at different positions and form a spectral map.

[0019] Based on the spectrum, a mapping relationship is established between the photon signal of each wavelength and the pixel column of the single-photon avalanche diode array to complete the calibration of the spectral system.

[0020] Optionally, the step of the multi-event time-to-number converter performing histogram statistics on the photon signals of different time responses in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods to determine the photon signal distribution of a specific wavelength corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods includes:

[0021] Obtain the time delay corresponding to each row of pixels in the single-photon avalanche diode array;

[0022] Based on the time delay corresponding to each row of pixels, each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in the single-photon avalanche diode array collects photon events to distinguish photon signals with different time responses.

[0023] The multi-event time-to-number converter performs time-resolved statistics on the pixel signals corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes to generate a statistical histogram, thereby determining the photon signal distribution in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods and constructing the photon lifetime curve.

[0024] Optionally, the multi-event time-to-time converter delays and combines the photon signal distributions within different laser pulse periods to determine the photon lifetime curve corresponding to a specific wavelength of photon signal from each column of single-photon avalanche diodes. The step of integrating the photon lifetime curves corresponding to the specific wavelength of photon signal from each column of single-photon avalanche diodes to construct the time-resolved spectrum of the sample to be tested includes:

[0025] Within each laser pulse cycle, the multi-event time-to-number converter statistically analyzes the time distribution of photon events occurring in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in the single-photon avalanche diode array, in order to determine the time decay curve corresponding to the photon signal of each column of single-photon avalanche diodes;

[0026] The photon lifetime curves corresponding to the photon signals of single-photon avalanche diodes in different columns are integrated to determine the photon lifetime curves corresponding to the photon signals of each wavelength, so as to construct the time-resolved spectrum of the sample to be tested.

[0027] Optionally, after the step of delaying and combining the photon signal distributions within different laser pulse periods to determine the photon lifetime curve corresponding to a specific wavelength of photon signal from each single-photon avalanche diode, and integrating the photon lifetime curves corresponding to the specific wavelength of photon signal from each single-photon avalanche diode to construct the time-resolved spectrum of the sample to be tested, the method further includes:

[0028] Obtain photon lifetime curves at different wavelengths in the time-resolved spectrum;

[0029] The photon lifetime curves at different wavelengths are fitted to determine the fluorescence lifetime at a specific wavelength.

[0030] Optionally, the multi-event time-to-time converter includes multiple single-column multi-event time-to-time converters, each single-column multi-event time-to-time converter corresponding to one column of single-photon avalanche diodes. The single-photon avalanche diode array is a 128×4 single-photon avalanche diode array. The photon signal distribution characterizes the time response pattern of the photon signal received by each column of single-photon avalanche diode array in each single-photon avalanche diode array during different laser pulse periods.

[0031] A time-resolved spectral measurement device based on a multi-event time-to-time converter, provided for another purpose of this application, includes:

[0032] The pulse signal excitation module is configured to respond to time-resolved spectral measurement commands by using a pulsed laser to emit laser light toward the sample to be tested according to a preset laser pulse period, so as to determine the synchronous pulse signal corresponding to the laser pulse period.

[0033] The photon signal receiving module is configured to use the synchronization pulse signal to trigger a multi-event time-to-number converter to receive photon signals with different time responses corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in the single-photon avalanche diode array within the laser pulse period, wherein each column of single-photon avalanche diodes receives a photon signal of the same wavelength, and each column of single-photon avalanche diodes includes multiple single-photon avalanche diodes.

[0034] The photon signal distribution determination module is configured to perform histogram statistics on the photon signals of different time responses in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods by the multi-event time-count converter, so as to determine the photon signal distribution of a specific wavelength corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods.

[0035] The time-resolved spectral measurement module is configured to delay and merge the photon signal distribution within different laser pulse cycles by the multi-event time-to-number converter to determine the photon lifetime curve corresponding to the photon signal of a specific wavelength of each single-photon avalanche diode, and integrate the photon lifetime curves corresponding to the photon signal of a specific wavelength of each single-photon avalanche diode to construct the time-resolved spectrum of the sample to be tested, so as to complete the time-resolved spectral measurement based on the multi-event time-to-number converter.

[0036] An electronic device provided for another purpose of this application includes a central processing unit and a memory, the central processing unit being configured to invoke and run a computer program stored in the memory to perform the steps of the time-resolved spectral measurement method based on a multi-event time-to-number converter described in this application.

[0037] A computer-readable storage medium is provided for another purpose of this application, which stores, in the form of computer-readable instructions, a computer program implemented according to the time-resolved spectral measurement method based on the multi-event time-to-number converter, which, when called by a computer, performs the steps included in the corresponding method.

[0038] Compared to existing technologies, this application addresses the problems in existing technologies where, when the optical signal is strong, the single-row linear array method is affected by the pileup effect caused by the dead time of the single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD). Multiple photon signals enter the detector at the same or very close moments, causing the detector to be unable to distinguish each photon signal. Furthermore, the parallel output multi-row linear array method results in the superposition of multiple electrical pulses, which the time-to-digital converter (TDC) identifies as a single pulse, thus reducing the signal-to-noise ratio of the count and affecting the linearity of the lifetime. This application provides, but is not limited to, the following beneficial effects:

[0039] Firstly, this application, by employing a multiphoton response method, can provide a higher signal-to-noise ratio compared to the traditional direct parallel output method. This is because multiphoton response can effectively increase the number of photons collected or optimize detector performance, thereby improving signal clarity at the same signal strength. A high signal-to-noise ratio can effectively reduce the impact of noise and improve the accuracy of signal detection, especially offering significant advantages in the detection of weak signals.

[0040] Secondly, this application increases the interval between signals by delaying multiple signals, which effectively overcomes the dead time problem inherent in the time-to-digital converter (TDC). By processing the delayed signals and increasing the signal interval, multiple photon events can be prevented from overlapping within the dead time, thereby improving the accuracy and efficiency of multi-event counting, effectively reducing event loss and counting errors, and improving measurement accuracy. This is especially significant in high-frequency signal or high-speed detection systems.

[0041] Third, by merging multiple signals into a single output signal, the number of interfaces is simplified. In traditional systems, each signal may require an independent interface and processing circuitry. However, this application reduces hardware complexity by merging signals, thereby lowering costs and improving system maintainability and stability.

[0042] Fourth, this application can overcome the dead time effect. By delaying and merging the signals of multiple rows of pixels, the influence of dead time can be effectively avoided. When multiple photons arrive, the signals of different pixels may be affected by dead time interference to varying degrees. Delaying and merging can accurately adjust and compensate the time information of these signals, reducing the count loss or time error caused by dead time.

[0043] Fifth, this application can improve time accuracy and detection sensitivity. The delayed signal processing and merging helps to improve the system's performance in terms of time resolution and sensitivity. In the environment of single-photon counting, the system can better recover and reconstruct the signal, thereby obtaining a more accurate timestamp and higher detection sensitivity, especially in measurement tasks that require high time accuracy. Attached Figure Description

[0044] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this application will become apparent and readily understood from the following description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0045] Figure 1 shows an exemplary network architecture used in the time-resolved spectral measurement method based on a multi-event time-to-number converter in this application;

[0046] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the time-correlated single-photon counting Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy system in an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of histogram statistics and delay merging performed by the multi-event time-to-time converter in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the calibration of the spectral system in an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of time-resolved spectroscopy and photon lifetime measurement in an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 6 is a schematic block diagram of the time-resolved spectral measurement device based on a multi-event time-to-number converter in an embodiment of this application.

[0051] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the computer device in the embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0052] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0053] Those skilled in the art will understand that, unless specifically stated otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” “the,” and “the” used herein may also include the plural forms. It should be further understood that the term “comprising” as used in this application means the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. It should be understood that when we say an element is “connected” or “coupled” to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or there may be intermediate elements. Furthermore, “connected” or “coupled” as used herein can include wireless connections or wireless coupling. The term “and / or” as used herein includes all or any units and all combinations of one or more associated listed items.

[0054] Those skilled in the art will understand that, unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains. It should also be understood that terms such as those defined in general dictionaries should be understood to have the same meaning as in the context of the prior art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless specifically defined as herein.

[0055] Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "client," "terminal," and "terminal device" as used herein include both devices that receive wireless signals, devices that only possess wireless signal receiver capabilities without transmission capabilities, and devices with receiving and transmitting hardware, devices that have receiving and transmitting hardware capable of bidirectional communication over a bidirectional communication link. Such devices may include: cellular or other communication devices such as personal computers or tablets, having single-line displays, multi-line displays, or cellular or other communication devices without multi-line displays; PCS (Personal Communications Service) that can combine voice, data processing, fax, and / or data communication capabilities; PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) that may include a radio frequency receiver, pager, internet / intranet access, web browser, notepad, calendar, and / or GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver; and conventional laptop and / or handheld computers or other devices that have and / or include radio frequency receivers. As used herein, "client," "terminal," and "terminal device" can be portable, transportable, installed in a means of transportation (air, sea, and / or land), or suitable and / or configured to operate locally and / or in a distributed manner, operating in any other location on Earth and / or in space. "Client," "terminal," and "terminal device" as used herein can also be a communication terminal, an internet access terminal, or a music / video playback terminal, such as a PDA, a MID (Mobile Internet Device), and / or a mobile phone with music / video playback capabilities, or a smart TV, set-top box, etc.

[0056] The hardware referred to by the names "server," "client," and "service node" in this application is essentially an electronic device with the equivalent capabilities of a personal computer. It is a hardware device with the necessary components revealed by the von Neumann architecture, such as a central processing unit (including an arithmetic logic unit and a control unit), memory, input devices, and output devices. The computer program is stored in its memory, and the central processing unit loads the program stored in the secondary storage into the main memory to run it, execute the instructions in the program, and interact with the input and output devices to complete specific functions.

[0057] It should be noted that the concept of "server" used in this application can also be extended to the case of server clusters. Based on the network deployment principles understood by those skilled in the art, the servers should be logically divided. Physically, these servers can be independent of each other but accessible through interfaces, or they can be integrated into a single physical computer or a computer cluster. Those skilled in the art should understand this flexibility and should not use it to constrain the implementation of the network deployment method in this application.

[0058] One or more of the technical features of this application, unless explicitly specified herein, can be deployed on a server and accessed by a client remotely calling the online service interface provided by the server, or can be directly deployed and run on a client to access the service.

[0059] Unless otherwise specified, the neural network models referenced or potentially referenced in this application may be deployed on a remote server and invoked remotely on the client, or deployed on a client with the capability to invoke directly. In some embodiments, when running on the client, the corresponding intelligence may be acquired through transfer learning in order to reduce the requirements on the client's hardware resources and avoid excessive consumption of the client's hardware resources.

[0060] Unless otherwise specified, all data involved in this application may be stored remotely on a server or on a local terminal device, as long as it is suitable for use by the technical solution of this application.

[0061] Those skilled in the art will understand that although the various methods in this application are described based on the same concept and thus present commonality among them, they can be performed independently unless otherwise specified. Similarly, the various embodiments disclosed in this application are all based on the same inventive concept; therefore, concepts expressed in the same way, as well as concepts that are appropriately changed for convenience but are expressed differently, should be understood equivalently.

[0062] Unless otherwise expressly stated, the various embodiments disclosed in this application can be combined in a cross-cutting manner to flexibly construct new embodiments, as long as such combination does not depart from the inventive spirit of this application and can meet the needs of the prior art or solve a certain deficiency in the prior art. Those skilled in the art should be aware of such modifications.

[0063] Referring to Figure 1, in one embodiment of the time-resolved spectral measurement method based on a multi-event time-to-number converter of this application, it includes:

[0064] Step S10: Response time-resolved spectral measurement command, using a pulsed laser to emit laser light to the sample to be tested according to a preset laser pulse period, in order to determine the synchronization pulse signal corresponding to the laser pulse period;

[0065] The time-resolved spectral measurement system in the terminal device can respond to the time-resolved spectral measurement command by using a pulsed laser to emit laser light to the sample to be tested according to a preset laser pulse period, so as to determine the synchronization pulse signal corresponding to the laser pulse period.

[0066] In some embodiments, the step of using a pulsed laser to emit laser light onto the sample to be tested according to a preset laser pulse period, and determining the synchronization pulse signal corresponding to the laser pulse period, includes:

[0067] Step S101: The pulsed laser emits laser pulses to the sample to be tested according to a preset laser pulse period to excite the sample to emit Raman scattering and fluorescence signals, wherein the laser pulse period is determined by the frequency of the laser pulse;

[0068] Step S102: The Raman scattering and fluorescence signals of the sample to be tested are dispersed and split by the spectral system and then irradiated onto the single-photon avalanche diode array.

[0069] Specifically, please refer to Figure 2 to build a time-correlated single-photon counting (TCSPC) Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy system. The pulsed laser 400 emits pulsed laser to the signal acquisition module 500. The pulse repetition frequency is f, such as 10 MHz, 20 MHz, etc., and the corresponding laser pulse period is T.

[0070] The signal acquisition module 500 acquires the Raman and fluorescence signals of the sample to be detected, and disperses the photon signals through the spectral system 300. A single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) array chip 100 is positioned on the detector image plane. The SPAD array chip 100 includes a SPAD array 101, a delay unit 102, and a parallel-to-serial conversion unit 103. Assuming the SPAD array 101 has M rows and N columns of pixels, the delay unit 102 is configured with a delay amount. Given 0, T / M, 2T / M...(M-1)*T / M, within the same pulse period T, the multi-event time-to-number converter (TDC) chip 200 has a histogram statistical function. Using the synchronization pulse signal of the pulsed laser 400 as the Start signal, the signals of the M rows of pixels in the same column are used as photon events for histogram statistics. Finally, the lifetime curves of the M rows are merged, and the N columns correspond to the photon lifetimes of different wavelengths, respectively, to obtain the time-resolved spectrum of the sample to be tested and the lifetime curves corresponding to the photon signals of each wavelength.

[0071] In a further embodiment, referring to Figure 3, the single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) array 101 is a 128×4 single-photon avalanche diode array, with each column corresponding to Column1, Column2...Column128, and each row corresponding to A, B, C, and D. Within the same pulse period, the first column detectors (Column1A, Column1B, Column1C, and Column1D) transmit photon event signals to the delay unit 102. The delay unit 102 delays the signals from Column1A, Column1B, Column1C, and Column1D respectively, and then transmits the signals to the parallel-to-serial conversion unit 103 to complete the series connection. Finally, the multi-event time-to-number converter (TDC) chip 200 measures, histograms, and delays the series signals (synchronized by a laser sync pulse) to obtain the photon lifetime curves for the first column detector positions. Finally, the lifetime curves of photon signals of different wavelengths statistically obtained by the multi-column time-to-number converter (TDC) are integrated to obtain the time-resolved spectrum or the fluorescence lifetime of a specific wavelength.

[0072] The single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) array 101 is a multi-row linear SPAD detector. The photosensitive unit is within each pixel, and the pixel structure does not contain any circuit structure. The signal is led out by the wires between the photosensitive units of each column of pixels.

[0073] The delay unit 102 is an on-chip delay that applies the same delay to pixels in the same row, ensuring that the minimum and maximum delayed signals are still within one laser cycle and do not interfere with each other.

[0074] The parallel-to-serial conversion unit 103 is implemented on-chip, which converts the delayed multi-channel detector signals into a series output, with each column of detectors corresponding to one parallel-to-serial conversion unit.

[0075] The multi-event time-to-number converter (TDC) chip 200 has time measurement, histogram statistics and delay merging functions, and can be implemented in different ways, such as integrating it on the same chip as the single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) array 101, or integrating it as a separate chip and connecting it through packaging, or implementing a multi-channel multi-event time-to-number converter (TDC) using an FPGA.

[0076] For the photon event signal delayed by the delay unit 102, the multi-event time-to-number converter (TDC) chip 200 records it in a multi-event manner and uses histogram statistics to count the signals of different laser pulse periods. The time-to-number converter (TDC) of a single channel can obtain the photon lifetime curve of the pixel column of multiple rows of single-photon avalanche diodes (SPADs) in the same column. Multiple lifetime curves can be merged through hardware programs or software to obtain the histogram statistics of photon events of each column of single-photon avalanche diodes (SPADs).

[0077] Step S20: The synchronous pulse signal is used to trigger a multi-event time-to-number converter to receive photon signals with different time responses corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in the single-photon avalanche diode array within the laser pulse period. Each column of single-photon avalanche diodes receives a photon signal of the same wavelength, and each column of single-photon avalanche diodes includes multiple single-photon avalanche diodes.

[0078] A pulsed laser is emitted towards the sample to be tested according to a preset laser pulse period. After determining the synchronization pulse signal corresponding to the laser pulse period, the synchronization pulse signal triggers a multi-event time-to-number converter (MTB) to receive photon signals with different time responses corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in the single-photon avalanche diode array within the laser pulse period. Each column of single-photon avalanche diodes receives photon signals of the same wavelength, and each column of single-photon avalanche diodes includes multiple single-photon avalanche diodes. The MTB includes multiple single-column MTBs, and each single-column MTB corresponds one-to-one with each column of single-photon avalanche diodes. The single-photon avalanche diode array is a 128×4 array.

[0079] In some embodiments, prior to the step of triggering a multi-event time-to-number converter with the synchronization pulse signal to receive photon signals corresponding to different time responses of each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in the single-photon avalanche diode array within the laser pulse period, the method includes:

[0080] Step S201: In response to the calibration command of the spectral system, the spectrometer decomposes the light emitted by the mercury lamp into photon signals of different wavelengths and maps the photon signals of different wavelengths onto the single-photon avalanche diode array. Each wavelength of photon signal will form a narrow vertical bright fringe on the detection surface to form multiple narrow vertical bright fringe, wherein each vertical bright fringe represents a photon signal of one wavelength.

[0081] Step S202: The single-photon avalanche diode array acquires the position of each pixel and its corresponding spectral information to record the brightness information at different positions and form a spectral map.

[0082] Step S203: Based on the spectrum, establish the mapping relationship between the photon signal of each wavelength and the pixel column of the single-photon avalanche diode array to complete the calibration of the spectral system.

[0083] Specifically, referring to Figure 4, the spectral system is calibrated using a mercury lamp calibration light source. Each wavelength in the mercury lamp image plane spectrum 301 corresponds to a narrow vertical bright fringe on the detection surface. Simultaneously, the spectral map 302 corresponding to the pixel position is obtained. The spectral system is adjusted to ensure that the single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) array 101 in Figure 2 is positioned appropriately within the mercury lamp image plane spectrum 301, thus determining the spectral range. Since the spectrum of the mercury lamp is known, a correspondence between specific wavelengths and pixel columns can be established. Furthermore, pixels within the same column contain photon signals of the same wavelength.

[0084] The spectrometer uses light generated by a mercury lamp to decompose it into photon signals of different wavelengths, forming a series of very narrow vertical bright fringes. These vertical bright fringes correspond to photon signals of different wavelengths on the detection surface. Then, by recording and analyzing these vertical bright fringes, a spectrum is obtained. Based on the spectrum, a mapping relationship between the photon signal of each wavelength and the pixel column of the single-photon avalanche diode array is established. The single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) array 101 is composed of multiple pixels distributed in different rows and columns. The pixels in each column usually correspond to a specific wavelength range. By using a mercury lamp calibration spectral system, the correspondence between each column of pixels and a specific wavelength can be determined.

[0085] By establishing a correspondence between wavelengths and pixel columns, where the light signal received by each column of pixels corresponds to a specific wavelength, the position of the spectral system is adjusted to ensure a suitable spectral range, thus guaranteeing that each pixel column in the single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) array 101 receives photon signals of different wavelengths.

[0086] Step S30: The multi-event time-to-number converter performs histogram statistics on the photon signals of different time responses in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods to determine the photon signal distribution of a specific wavelength corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods.

[0087] After the synchronous pulse signal triggers the multi-event time-to-number converter to receive photon signals with different time responses corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in the single-photon avalanche diode array within the laser pulse period, the multi-event time-to-number converter performs histogram statistics on the photon signals with different time responses in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods to determine the photon signal distribution of a specific wavelength corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in different laser pulse periods. The photon signal distribution characterizes the time response pattern of the photon signal received by each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in each single-photon avalanche diode array within different laser pulse periods.

[0088] In a specific embodiment, the step of the multi-event time-to-number converter performing histogram statistics on the photon signals of different time responses in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods to determine the photon signal distribution of a specific wavelength corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods includes:

[0089] Step S301: Obtain the time delay corresponding to each row of pixels in the single-photon avalanche diode array;

[0090] Step S302: Based on the time delay corresponding to each row of pixels, the pixel column corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in the single-photon avalanche diode array collects photon events to distinguish photon signals with different time responses;

[0091] Step S303: The multi-event time-to-number converter performs time-resolved statistics on the pixel signals corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes to generate a statistical histogram, thereby determining the photon signal distribution in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods, and constructing the photon lifetime curve.

[0092] Specifically, in the single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) array 101, each column contains multiple single-photon avalanche diodes. Typically, these single-photon avalanche diodes are arranged in different rows within the same column. For example, if there is an M-row N-column single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) array, then each column contains M detectors (each detector is located in a different row).

[0093] Each single-photon avalanche diode (e.g., in row 1, row 2, row M) receives light signals within the same wavelength range because they all belong to the same column of pixels. The main difference between these different rows lies in the time difference of their detected signals, which is the delay amount (0, T / M, 2T / M, etc.) set by the delay unit 102. The delay unit controls the time response of each single-photon avalanche diode so that their acquired signals within the same pulse period T are staggered in time, thereby achieving the statistics of multiple events.

[0094] Since the photon signals of the M single-photon avalanche diodes in each column have different time delays (0, T / M, 2T / M...), the single-photon avalanche diodes in the same column can collect signals at different time points. This allows time-correlated single-photon counting (TCSPC) experiments to be performed using these single-photon avalanche diodes, thereby obtaining photon lifetime information at different wavelengths.

[0095] Each column of pixels in the single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) array 101 corresponds to a photon of a specific wavelength. Each detector receives different temporal distributions of the light signal of this wavelength. By statistically analyzing and combining the signals of all M detectors in each column, the photon lifetime curve corresponding to the photon signal of that wavelength can be obtained.

[0096] Step S40: The multi-event time-to-number converter delays and merges the photon signal distributions within different laser pulse periods to determine the photon lifetime curve corresponding to the photon signal of a specific wavelength in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes. The photon lifetime curves corresponding to the photon signal of a specific wavelength in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes are integrated to construct the time-resolved spectrum of the sample to be tested, thereby completing the measurement of the time-resolved spectrum based on the multi-event time-to-number converter.

[0097] The multi-event time-to-number converter (MTB) performs histogram statistics on the photon signals of different time responses in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods to determine the photon signal distribution of a specific wavelength corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods. Then, the MTB performs delayed merging of these photon signal distributions within different laser pulse periods to determine the photon lifetime curve corresponding to the specific wavelength photon signal of each column of single-photon avalanche diodes. Finally, the MTB integrates these photon lifetime curves to construct the time-resolved spectrum of the sample under test, thus completing the time-resolved spectral measurement based on the MTB.

[0098] In some embodiments, the multi-event time-to-number converter delays and combines the photon signal distributions within different laser pulse periods to determine the photon lifetime curve corresponding to a specific wavelength of photon signal from each column of single-photon avalanche diodes. The step of integrating the photon lifetime curves corresponding to the specific wavelength of photon signal from each column of single-photon avalanche diodes to construct the time-resolved spectrum of the sample to be tested includes:

[0099] Step S401: Within each laser pulse cycle, the multi-event time-to-number converter statistically analyzes the time distribution of photon events occurring in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in the single-photon avalanche diode array, so as to determine the time decay curve corresponding to the photon signal of each column of single-photon avalanche diodes.

[0100] Step S402: Integrate the photon lifetime curves corresponding to the photon signals of single-photon avalanche diodes in different columns, determine the photon lifetime curves corresponding to the photon signals of each wavelength, and construct the time-resolved spectrum of the sample to be tested.

[0101] Specifically, within the pulse period of the pulsed laser, the time-to-multiple-event converter (TDC) chip 200 uses the synchronization pulse of the pulsed laser as the start signal, and then performs histogram statistics on the signals (Events) of the M detectors in each column at different time periods. In this way, the signals of the M detectors in the same column are synthesized into a complete time-resolved spectrum.

[0102] Each N columns correspond to photon signals of different wavelengths. Therefore, the system can obtain time-resolved spectral data and statistically analyze the photon lifetimes of each wavelength to obtain photon lifetime curves for different wavelengths, thereby constructing the time-resolved spectrum of the sample to be tested.

[0103] More specifically, single-photon avalanche diodes in the same column receive optical signals within the same wavelength range; these single-photon avalanche diodes are located in different rows and staggered in time by different delay amounts; multiple single-photon avalanche diodes in each column acquire signals within the same pulse period, and finally synthesize the time-resolved spectrum of that wavelength, and combine it with other columns (corresponding to other wavelengths) to obtain complete time-resolved spectral data.

[0104] In a further embodiment, after the multi-event time-to-number converter delays and combines the photon signal distributions within different laser pulse periods to determine the photon lifetime curve corresponding to a specific wavelength of photon signal from each single-photon avalanche diode, and integrates the photon lifetime curves corresponding to the specific wavelength of photon signal from each single-photon avalanche diode to construct the time-resolved spectrum of the sample to be detected, the method further includes:

[0105] Step S4001: Obtain the photon lifetime curves of different wavelengths in the time-resolved spectrum;

[0106] Step S4002: Fit the photon lifetime curves of different wavelengths to determine the fluorescence lifetime at a specific wavelength.

[0107] Specifically, the single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) array 101 performs histogram statistics on the photon signal at each moment within the laser pulse cycle. By counting the number of photons received at different times, a time-count curve of the time-resolved spectrum can be constructed. This curve reflects the decay characteristics of fluorescence emission at different time points. The response data of each column of single-photon avalanche diodes forms the time distribution of the photon signal at that wavelength and reveals the time characteristics of fluorescence decay. The fluorescence lifetime is usually determined by the decay process of this time distribution, and the decay rate is inversely proportional to the fluorescence lifetime. By processing the time-resolved spectrum, the photon lifetime curve for each wavelength can be obtained. This curve is usually obtained by fitting the decay curve of the photon signal, and different mathematical models (such as the exponential decay model) can be used for fitting.

[0108] In some embodiments, referring to Figure 5, in time-resolved spectroscopy and photon lifetime measurement, a 128×4 single-photon avalanche diode array is used as a photon counting detector. The four single-photon avalanche diodes in the first column correspond to Column1A, Column1B, Column1C, and Column1D, for a total of 128 columns. The laser pulse has a period of T when the laser is emitted, and a synchronization pulse signal is given simultaneously. Within the pulse period of the laser pulse period T, the single-column multi-event time-to-number converter (TDC) uses the synchronization pulse signal as the start signal. The photon signals detected by the single-photon avalanche diodes Column1A, Column1B, Column1C, and Column1D in the first column are received by the single-column multi-event time-to-number converter (TDC) as different events after different delays. Subsequently, the multi-event time-to-number converter (TDC) performs histogram statistics on the signals of different periods to obtain the lifetime curves of the photons detected by the four detectors that are superimposed in time. Finally, the histogram statistics of the single-column multi-event time-to-number converter (TDC), that is, the curves of the four rows in the same column, are delayed and merged. Since the photon signal is dispersed after passing through the slit of the spectrometer, the single-photon avalanche diodes Column1A, Column1B, Column1C, and Column1D in the same column have similar photon distributions. That is, the detectors in the same column correspond to the photon signal of the same wavelength. Based on the lifetime curve and count distribution of the detectors in that column, the information from multiple columns is finally integrated to obtain the time-resolved spectrum or the fluorescence lifetime of a specific wavelength.

[0109] As can be seen from the above embodiments, compared with the prior art, this application addresses the problems in the prior art where, when the optical signal is strong, the single-row linear array method is affected by the pileup effect caused by the dead time of the single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD). Multiple photon signals enter the detector at the same time or very close to the time, causing the detector to be unable to distinguish each photon signal. The parallel output multi-row linear array method causes the superposition of multiple electrical pulses, which are recognized as a single pulse by the time-to-digital converter (TDC), thereby reducing the signal-to-noise ratio of counting and affecting the linearity of the lifetime. This application includes, but is not limited to, the following beneficial effects:

[0110] Firstly, this application, by employing a multiphoton response method, can provide a higher signal-to-noise ratio compared to the traditional direct parallel output method. This is because multiphoton response can effectively increase the number of photons collected or optimize detector performance, thereby improving signal clarity at the same signal strength. A high signal-to-noise ratio can effectively reduce the impact of noise and improve the accuracy of signal detection, especially offering significant advantages in the detection of weak signals.

[0111] Secondly, this application increases the interval between signals by delaying multiple signals, which effectively overcomes the dead time problem inherent in the time-to-digital converter (TDC). By processing the delayed signals and increasing the signal interval, multiple photon events can be prevented from overlapping within the dead time, thereby improving the accuracy and efficiency of multi-event counting, effectively reducing event loss and counting errors, and improving measurement accuracy. This is especially significant in high-frequency signal or high-speed detection systems.

[0112] Third, by merging multiple signals into a single output signal, the number of interfaces is simplified. In traditional systems, each signal may require an independent interface and processing circuitry. However, this application reduces hardware complexity by merging signals, thereby lowering costs and improving system maintainability and stability.

[0113] Fourth, this application can overcome the dead time effect. By delaying and merging the signals of multiple rows of pixels, the influence of dead time can be effectively avoided. When multiple photons arrive, the signals of different pixels may be affected by dead time interference to varying degrees. Delaying and merging can accurately adjust and compensate the time information of these signals, reducing the count loss or time error caused by dead time.

[0114] Fifth, this application can improve time accuracy and detection sensitivity. The delayed signal processing and merging helps to improve the system's performance in terms of time resolution and sensitivity. In the environment of single-photon counting, the system can better recover and reconstruct the signal, thereby obtaining a more accurate timestamp and higher detection sensitivity, especially in measurement tasks that require high time accuracy.

[0115] Please refer to Figure 6. A time-resolved spectral measurement device based on a multi-event time-to-time converter, provided to suit one of the purposes of this application, includes a pulse signal excitation module 1100, a photon signal receiving module 1200, a photon signal distribution determination module 1300, and a time-resolved spectral measurement module 1400. The pulse signal excitation module 1100 is configured to respond to a time-resolved spectral measurement command by emitting laser light from a pulsed laser at a preset laser pulse period towards the sample to be tested, thereby determining a synchronization pulse signal corresponding to the laser pulse period. The photon signal receiving module 1200 is configured to use the synchronization pulse signal to trigger the multi-event time-to-time converter to receive photon signals with different time responses corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in the single-photon avalanche diode array within the laser pulse period. Each column of single-photon avalanche diodes receives photon signals of the same wavelength from its corresponding pixel column, and each column of single-photon avalanche diodes includes multiple single-photon avalanche diodes. The photon signal distribution determination module 1300 is configured to... Histogram statistics are performed on the photon signals of different time responses in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse cycles to determine the photon signal distribution of a specific wavelength corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse cycles. The time-resolved spectral measurement module 1400 is configured to delay and merge the photon signal distributions within different laser pulse cycles by the multi-event time-to-number converter to determine the photon lifetime curve corresponding to the photon signal of a specific wavelength in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes. The photon lifetime curves corresponding to the photon signal of a specific wavelength in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes are integrated to construct the time-resolved spectrum of the sample under test, thereby completing the time-resolved spectral measurement based on the multi-event time-to-number converter.

[0116] Based on any embodiment of this application, referring to FIG7, another embodiment of this application also provides an electronic device, which can be implemented by a computer device. FIG7 shows a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the computer device. The computer device includes a processor, a computer-readable storage medium, a memory, and a network interface connected via a system bus. The computer-readable storage medium of the computer device stores an operating system, a database, and computer-readable instructions. The database may store a sequence of control information. When the computer-readable instructions are executed by the processor, the processor can implement a time-resolved spectral measurement method based on a multi-event time-to-number converter. The processor of the computer device provides computing and control capabilities to support the operation of the entire computer device. The memory of the computer device may store computer-readable instructions. When the computer-readable instructions are executed by the processor, the processor can execute the time-resolved spectral measurement method based on a multi-event time-to-number converter of this application. The network interface of the computer device is used for communication with a terminal. Those skilled in the art will understand that the structure shown in FIG7 is merely a block diagram of a portion of the structure related to the solution of this application and does not constitute a limitation on the computer device to which the solution of this application is applied. A specific computer device may include more or fewer components than shown in the figure, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0117] In this embodiment, the processor executes the specific functions of each module in Figure 6, and the memory stores the program code and various types of data required to execute the above modules or sub-modules. The network interface is used for data transmission between the user terminal and the server. In this embodiment, the memory stores the program code and data required to execute all modules / sub-modules in the time-resolved spectral measurement device based on the multi-event time-to-number converter of this application, and the server can call the server's program code and data to execute the functions of all sub-modules.

[0118] This application also provides a storage medium storing computer-readable instructions, which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform the steps of the time-resolved spectral measurement method based on a multi-event time-to-number converter as described in any embodiment of this application.

[0119] This application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program / instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, implement the steps of the time-resolved spectral measurement method based on a multi-event time-to-number converter as described in any embodiment of this application.

[0120] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the methods of the above embodiments of this application can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. This computer program can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the embodiments of the methods described above. The aforementioned storage medium can be a magnetic disk, optical disk, read-only memory (ROM), or random access memory (RAM), etc.

[0121] The above description is only a partial embodiment of this application. It should be noted that for those skilled in the art, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the principle of this application, and these improvements and modifications should also be considered within the scope of protection of this application.

[0122] In summary, this application can improve time accuracy and detection sensitivity. The delayed signal processing and subsequent merging helps to improve the system's performance in terms of time resolution and sensitivity. In the environment of single-photon counting, the system can better recover and reconstruct the signal, thereby obtaining a more accurate timestamp and higher detection sensitivity, especially in measurement tasks that require high time accuracy.

Claims

1. A time-resolved spectral measurement method based on a multi-event time-to-number converter, characterized in that, include: The response time-resolved spectral measurement command uses a pulsed laser to emit laser light onto the sample to be tested according to a preset laser pulse period, in order to determine the synchronization pulse signal corresponding to the laser pulse period; In response to the calibration command of the spectral system, the spectral system decomposes the light emitted by the mercury lamp into photon signals of different wavelengths and maps the photon signals of different wavelengths onto the single-photon avalanche diode array. Each wavelength of photon signal will form a narrow vertical bright fringe on the detection surface to form multiple narrow vertical bright fringe, wherein each vertical bright fringe represents a photon signal of one wavelength. The single-photon avalanche diode array acquires the position of each pixel and its corresponding spectral information to record the brightness information at different positions and form a spectral map. Based on the spectrum, a mapping relationship is established between the photon signal of each wavelength and the pixel column of the single-photon avalanche diode array to complete the calibration of the spectral system; The synchronization pulse signal is used to trigger a multi-event time-to-count converter to receive photon signals with different time responses corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in the single-photon avalanche diode array within the laser pulse period. Each column of single-photon avalanche diodes receives a pixel column of the same wavelength. Each column of single-photon avalanche diodes includes multiple single-photon avalanche diodes. The multi-event time-to-count converter includes multiple single-column multi-event time-to-count converters, and each single-column multi-event time-to-count converter corresponds one-to-one with each column of single-photon avalanche diodes. The multi-event time-to-number converter performs histogram statistics on the photon signals of different time responses in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods, so as to determine the photon signal distribution of a specific wavelength corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods. The multi-event time-to-number converter delays and combines the photon signal distributions within different laser pulse periods to determine the photon lifetime curve corresponding to the photon signal of a specific wavelength in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes. The photon lifetime curves corresponding to the photon signal of a specific wavelength in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes are integrated to construct the time-resolved spectrum of the sample to be tested, thereby completing the measurement of the time-resolved spectrum based on the multi-event time-to-number converter.

2. The time-resolved spectral measurement method based on a multi-event time-to-number converter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of emitting laser light onto the sample to be tested using a pulsed laser according to a preset laser pulse period, and determining the synchronization pulse signal corresponding to the laser pulse period, includes: The pulsed laser emits laser pulses to the sample to be tested according to a preset laser pulse period to excite the sample to emit Raman scattering and fluorescence signals, wherein the laser pulse period is determined by the frequency of the laser pulse; The Raman scattering and fluorescence signals of the sample to be tested are dispersed and split by the spectral system and then irradiated onto the single-photon avalanche diode array.

3. The time-resolved spectral measurement method based on a multi-event time-to-number converter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-event time-to-number converter performs histogram statistics on the photon signals of different time responses in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods to determine the photon signal distribution of a specific wavelength corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods, including: Obtain the time delay corresponding to each row of pixels in the single-photon avalanche diode array; Based on the time delay corresponding to each row of pixels, each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in the single-photon avalanche diode array collects photon events to distinguish photon signals with different time responses. The multi-event time-to-number converter performs time-resolved statistics on the pixel signals corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes to generate a statistical histogram, thereby determining the photon signal distribution in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods and constructing the photon lifetime curve.

4. The time-resolved spectral measurement method based on a multi-event time-to-number converter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-event time-to-number converter delays and combines the photon signal distributions within different laser pulse periods to determine the photon lifetime curve corresponding to a specific wavelength of photon signal from each column of single-photon avalanche diodes. The step of integrating the photon lifetime curves corresponding to the specific wavelength of photon signal from each column of single-photon avalanche diodes to construct the time-resolved spectrum of the sample to be tested includes: Within each laser pulse cycle, the multi-event time-to-number converter statistically analyzes the time distribution of photon events occurring in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in the single-photon avalanche diode array, in order to determine the time decay curve corresponding to the photon signal of each column of single-photon avalanche diodes; The photon lifetime curves corresponding to the photon signals of single-photon avalanche diodes in different columns are integrated to determine the photon lifetime curves corresponding to the photon signals of each wavelength, so as to construct the time-resolved spectrum of the sample to be tested.

5. The time-resolved spectral measurement method based on a multi-event time-to-number converter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-event time-to-number converter delays and combines the photon signal distributions within different laser pulse periods to determine the photon lifetime curve corresponding to a specific wavelength of photon signal from each column of single-photon avalanche diodes. Following the step of integrating the photon lifetime curves corresponding to the specific wavelength of photon signal from each column of single-photon avalanche diodes to construct the time-resolved spectrum of the sample to be tested, the following steps are included: Obtain photon lifetime curves at different wavelengths in the time-resolved spectrum; The photon lifetime curves at different wavelengths are fitted to determine the fluorescence lifetime at a specific wavelength.

6. The time-resolved spectral measurement method based on a multi-event time-to-number converter according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The single-photon avalanche diode array is a 128×4 single-photon avalanche diode array, and the photon signal distribution characterizes the time response mode of the photon signal received by each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in each single-photon avalanche diode array during different laser pulse periods.

7. A time-resolved spectral measurement device based on a multi-event time-to-number converter, characterized in that, include: The pulse signal excitation module is configured to respond to time-resolved spectral measurement commands by using a pulsed laser to emit laser light toward the sample to be tested according to a preset laser pulse period, so as to determine the synchronous pulse signal corresponding to the laser pulse period. The photon signal receiving module is configured to respond to the calibration command of the spectral system. The spectral system decomposes the light emitted by the mercury lamp into photon signals of different wavelengths and maps the photon signals of different wavelengths onto the single-photon avalanche diode array. Each wavelength of photon signal will form a narrow vertical bright fringe on the detection surface to form multiple narrow vertical bright fringe, wherein each vertical bright fringe represents a photon signal of one wavelength. The single-photon avalanche diode array acquires the position of each pixel and its corresponding spectral information to record the brightness information at different positions and form a spectral map. Based on the spectrum, a mapping relationship is established between the photon signal of each wavelength and the pixel column of the single-photon avalanche diode array to complete the calibration of the spectral system; The synchronization pulse signal is used to trigger a multi-event time-to-count converter to receive photon signals with different time responses corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes in the single-photon avalanche diode array within the laser pulse period. Each column of single-photon avalanche diodes receives a pixel column of the same wavelength. Each column of single-photon avalanche diodes includes multiple single-photon avalanche diodes. The multi-event time-to-count converter includes multiple single-column multi-event time-to-count converters, and each single-column multi-event time-to-count converter corresponds one-to-one with each column of single-photon avalanche diodes. The photon signal distribution determination module is configured to perform histogram statistics on the photon signals of different time responses in each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods by the multi-event time-count converter, so as to determine the photon signal distribution of a specific wavelength corresponding to each column of single-photon avalanche diodes within different laser pulse periods. The time-resolved spectral measurement module is configured to delay and merge the photon signal distribution within different laser pulse cycles by the multi-event time-to-number converter to determine the photon lifetime curve corresponding to the photon signal of a specific wavelength of each single-photon avalanche diode, and integrate the photon lifetime curves corresponding to the photon signal of a specific wavelength of each single-photon avalanche diode to construct the time-resolved spectrum of the sample to be tested, so as to complete the time-resolved spectral measurement based on the multi-event time-to-number converter.

8. An electronic device comprising a central processing unit and a memory, characterized in that, The central processing unit is used to invoke and run a computer program stored in the memory to perform the steps of the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 6.

9. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, It stores, in the form of computer-readable instructions, a computer program implemented according to any one of claims 1 to 6, which, when invoked by a computer, executes the steps included in the corresponding method.

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