Coded Mask and Compton Imaging for Gamma Source Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing detection systems for gamma and X radiation are limited in their ability to accurately locate and image sources in two or three dimensions, especially at finite distances, and struggle with high noise levels and inefficient angular resolution over an extended spectral range.
Innovation Solution
A device combining coded mask imaging and Compton imaging techniques, using two plane detectors and a coded mask to enhance angular resolution and signal-to-noise ratio, allowing for precise two- or three-dimensional localization and energy measurement of radiation sources over a wide spectral range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If coded mask imaging is used, then angular resolution is improved, but field of view is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines coded mask imaging and Compton imaging techniques into a single detection system. The coded mask provides high angular resolution for sources within its field of view, while the Compton imaging detectors extend the field of view by detecting scattered photons from sources outside the coded mask's coverage area.
2Adaptability or versatility
If Compton imaging is used, then field of view is improved, but angular resolution is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges Compton imaging detectors with a coded mask, where the Compton detectors provide wide field of view coverage and the coded mask enhances angular resolution for sources within its viewing area, creating a complementary relationship between the two techniques.
3Measurement precision
If gamma or X focusing is used, then angular resolution is improved, but focal length becomes excessively long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical focusing system (gamma or X lenses with long focal lengths) with a combination of coded mask imaging and Compton imaging techniques. The coded mask uses geometric shadow patterns rather than optical focusing, eliminating the need for long focal lengths while achieving comparable or superior angular resolution.
4Device complexity
If existing detection systems are used, then device complexity is reduced, but localization precision at finite distances is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple detection techniques (coded mask imaging and Compton imaging) into an integrated system that maintains reasonable complexity while significantly improving localization precision at finite distances through the complementary strengths of each technique.
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 combined technique provides improved angular resolution and signal-to-noise ratio, enabling precise localization and imaging of radiation sources in two or three dimensions, even at finite distances, and effectively measures energy and flux variations, overcoming limitations of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
coded mask imaging consists in recording, on a position detector which is sensitive to gamma or X photons, the shadow of a mask which is partially opaque to these photons
Implementation Method 2
a gamma or X photon, having a sufficiently high incident energy, has a high probability of yielding only part of this energy to an electron which is bound to the atoms of the first detector encountered, following an inelastic shock
Data Source
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Figure 3~4
AI summary
Device for locating and imaging gamma or X-radiation sources, comprising: (a) a detection assembly (2) comprising at least two gamma or X-radiation detectors sensitive to position, as well as a coded mask (10) made of a radiation opaque material; and (b) electronic means (4) for processing the electrical pulses provided by said detectors, so as to locate the source and form a bi- or tri- dimensional image thereof. The device is characterized in that the electronic means (4) are suitable for reconstructing a bi- or tri- dimensional image of an X or gamma radiation source (16) by applying a data processing method which combines the principles of Compton imaging and coded-mask imaging.