Angled PCB Detector Module for CT Signal Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray detectors with a two-dimensional arrangement of modules lack sufficient space for signal-processing electronics, which are essential for effective measurement and heat dissipation, as they require a larger area than the detector modules and generate significant heat during operation.
Innovation Solution
A detector module design featuring a printed circuit board with a second region angled off from the first, allowing signal-processing electronics to be vertically arranged below the detector elements, with a carrier for heat dissipation and electromagnetic interference protection, and using a U-shaped or L-shaped printed circuit board to route signals and prevent protrusion, enabling efficient signal processing and heat management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If detector modules are arranged in a two-dimensional array to form a large detection area, then the detection area is maximized, but there is insufficient space for signal-processing electronics close to the detector elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a planar arrangement to a vertical three-dimensional structure. The printed circuit board is angled at approximately 45 degrees relative to the detector element array, allowing signal-processing electronics to be positioned below the detector elements in the vertical dimension rather than requiring additional horizontal space. This enables close proximity of electronics to detection area while maintaining large detection area capability.
2Measurement precision
If signal-processing electronics are positioned close to detector elements for effective measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but heat dissipation becomes problematic due to limited space
Solution Approach 1:
The vertical arrangement of the printed circuit board at an angle creates three-dimensional space for heat dissipation pathways. This spatial configuration allows heat to be conducted away from the electronics through the board structure and into the surrounding environment, effectively managing thermal load while maintaining close electrical coupling between detector elements and signal-processing circuits.
3Ease of manufacture
If a conventional flat printed circuit board is used, then manufacturing is simple, but the electronics protrude from the sides preventing compact two-dimensional arrangement of detector modules
Solution Approach 1:
The printed circuit board is configured at an approximate 45-degree angle relative to the detector element array plane, transforming it from a flat two-dimensional component to a three-dimensional angled structure. This angular configuration allows the electronics to be positioned below the detector elements without protruding from the lateral boundaries, enabling compact stacking of multiple detector modules in two dimensions while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standard PCB fabrication processes.
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 design allows for a compact, efficient arrangement of detector modules in two dimensions, ensuring close proximity of signal-processing electronics to the detection area, effective heat dissipation, and preventing overheating, thus enabling stable operation and high-quality imaging in computer tomographs.
Implementation Method 1
The elements of the scintillator array convert X-ray radiation hitting them into visible light
Implementation Method 2
which is converted into electrical signals by the downstream photodiodes of the photodiode array
Implementation Method 3
a carrier for heat dissipation and electromagnetic interference protection
Data Source
AI summary
A detector module is disclosed, having an array of detector elements and a printed circuit board. The printed circuit board includes a first region for holding the array of detector elements and includes at least one second region, angled off relative to the first region. On this at least one second region, signal-processing electronics may be arranged. The vertical design of the detector module allows the design of an area detector to be produced on the basis of a multiplicity of detector modules arranged next to one another. The area detector may be provided for a computer tomograph.