Non-destructive Alpha Beta Radiation Measurement Head
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting alpha and beta radiation on solid surfaces are destructive, provide only local and partial analysis, and lack the ability to create precise, non-destructive, and autonomous cartography, making them inadequate for comprehensive contamination assessment in nuclear sites.
Innovation Solution
A non-destructive measurement device with a motorized automaton and a measurement head containing a solid primary scintillator and silicon photomultiplier, housed in an opaque case, allows for precise placement and imaging of alpha and beta radiation on solid surfaces, enabling bi-dimensional mapping without human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If caroting or smear techniques are used to detect alpha and beta radiation, then localized measurements can be obtained, but the solid surface is destroyed and only partial analysis is provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical destructive sampling methods (caroting, smear) with a non-destructive scintillation detection system. The measurement head with scintillator and photomultiplier tube detects radiation directly from the solid surface without physical contact that would damage it, substituting mechanical extraction with optical/electromagnetic detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a scintillator material as an intermediary between the radiation source and the detector. The scintillator converts alpha and beta radiation into visible light, which is then detected by the photomultiplier tube, enabling non-destructive measurement while maintaining surface integrity.
2Measurement precision
If caroting or smear sampling is performed, then radiation activity can be measured, but the analysis is limited to local areas and requires a posteriori analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from point-based sampling to two-dimensional surface mapping. The measurement head scans across the surface in a systematic grid pattern, collecting radiation data at multiple positions and reconstructing the spatial distribution of contamination, thereby adding the dimension of spatial mapping to the measurement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous scanning measurement rather than discrete sampling. The automaton moves the measurement head continuously across the surface, collecting radiation data at every position along the scan path, providing complete spatial coverage and eliminating the gaps inherent in discrete sampling methods.
3Measurement precision
If manual sampling and analysis methods are used, then radiation measurements can be obtained, but the process is time-consuming and requires human intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an autonomous measurement system where the automaton independently positions and moves the measurement head, the system self-regulates the scanning process, and data is automatically collected and processed without human intervention during the measurement phase, making the system self-sufficient and dramatically reducing analysis time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic automation to replace static manual operations. The motorized automaton dynamically positions the measurement head according to a pre-programmed scan pattern, automatically adjusting position and collecting data continuously, transforming the static, step-by-step manual process into a dynamic, continuous automated operation.
4Stability of the object's composition
If existing non-destructive measurement devices are used, then surface integrity is maintained, but they cannot perform autonomous cartography or provide precise location mapping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated system: radiation detection, spatial positioning, automated scanning, and data mapping. The measurement system not only detects radiation levels but also automatically records spatial coordinates and generates contamination maps, providing both measurement and cartography capabilities in one universal device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the measurement task into discrete, automated segments: positioning the measurement head at specific grid points, measuring radiation at each point, recording coordinates, and compiling results into a comprehensive map. This segmentation of the measurement process enables systematic coverage and automatic generation of spatial contamination distributions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables precise, non-destructive, and autonomous detection and mapping of alpha and beta radiation on solid surfaces, providing detailed contamination maps that are essential for nuclear site safety and waste management.
Implementation Method 1
at least a solid primary scintillator having a face Main plane positioned close to a portion of the flat surface
Implementation Method 2
At least a photomultiplier, each photomultipper being coupled optically to a solid primary scintiller
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5b
AI summary
The invention relates to a non-destructive device for measuring alpha and/or beta radiation emitted by a flat surface of a solid. The device comprises at least one measuring head and a motorised automaton configured to move a measuring head and bring it into contact with the flat surface. The measuring head comprises: - at least one primary solid scintillator having a main planar surface intended to be brought into contact with a portion of the flat surface; - at least one silicon photomultiplier (SiPM), each SiPM being optically coupled to a primary solid scintillator; - a housing opaque to visible light and to alpha and beta radiation, having an open recess intended to house the at least one primary solid scintillator and the at least one SiPM, the primary solid scintillator being arranged to close the recess and form an outer wall of the housing, so as to allow the primary scintillator to be brought into contact with the portion of surface.