Angled Fiber Optic Plate for X-ray Diffraction Imaging Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray diffraction imaging (XRDI) systems face challenges in achieving high resolution for detecting defects in crystalline samples, particularly due to limitations in the design of detector assemblies which affect the accuracy and clarity of XRD images.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a detector assembly that includes a fiber optic plate (FOP) with optical fibers disposed at acute angles relative to the normal of the optical sensor's surface, and a scintillator layer on the FOP's surface to convert X-rays into optical radiation, enhancing the resolution of XRD images by minimizing spot size and distortion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional detector assembly with parallel fiber optic plate surfaces is used, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision of XRD images deteriorates due to larger spot size and distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The fiber optic plate is designed with asymmetric surfaces where the first surface is parallel to the optical sensor and the second surface is oblique relative to the first surface. This asymmetric configuration allows the plate to receive X-ray beams at optimized angles while maintaining proper alignment with the sensor, thereby reducing spot size and improving XRD image resolution without requiring complete redesign of the detector assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an angular dimension to the fiber optic plate configuration by tilting the second surface relative to the first surface. This dimensional change allows the detector to optimize the angle of incidence for X-ray beams, transforming a conventional parallel-plate structure into an angled structure that improves measurement precision while adding geometric complexity
2Measurement precision
If the fiber optic plate has oblique surfaces to reduce spot size, then the measurement precision improves, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates due to manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The fiber optic plate is segmented into two distinct surfaces with different orientations: a first surface parallel to the optical sensor and a second oblique surface for receiving X-ray beams. This segmentation allows each surface to be optimized independently for its specific function while maintaining overall manufacturability through modular design approaches
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
This configuration improves the resolution of XRD images by reducing spot size and enhancing image clarity, allowing for more accurate detection of defects in crystalline samples, thereby improving the overall performance of XRDI systems.
Implementation Method 1
a scintillator layer disposed on the second surface of the FOP and configured to convert an X-ray beam into the optical radiation
Implementation Method 2
one or more optical fibers disposed at an acute angle relative to a normal to the first surface, the one or more optical fibers are configured to convey the optical radiation to the optical sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A detector assembly of an X-ray system, the detector assembly includes: (a) an optical sensor having a first surface, the optical sensor configured to receive optical radiation impinging on the first surface, and to produce an electrical signal responsively to the optical radiation, (b) a fiber optic plate (FOP) disposed over the first surface of the optical sensor, the FOP includes: (i) one or more optical fibers disposed at an acute angle relative to a normal to the first surface, the one or more optical fibers are configured to convey the optical radiation to the optical sensor, and (ii) a second surface, which is oblique to the first surface, and (c) a scintillator layer disposed on the second surface of the FOP and configured to convert an X-ray beam into the optical radiation.