Compact Semiconductor Neutron Detector with Non-Parallel Axes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Bonner sphere spectrometers, used for characterizing neutron radiation environments, are large and heavy, limiting their application in various fields due to their size and weight, which restricts the ability to derive neutron spectrum information effectively.
Innovation Solution
A compact neutron detector system comprising semiconductor detector portions arranged in non-parallel axes, with a control unit allocating detection signals to channels based on coincident signals to determine the neutron spectrum, utilizing a converter to convert neutrons to ionizing particles that deposit energy in semiconductor detectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If Bonner sphere spectrometers are used for neutron spectrum measurement, then neutron spectrum information can be obtained, but the device becomes large and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the neutron detection system into multiple semiconductor detector portions arranged in a compact configuration. Each detector portion contributes to different aspects of spectrum measurement, allowing the system to achieve comprehensive spectrum information while maintaining a small, lightweight form factor compared to traditional Bonner sphere spectrometers
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the detection parameters by using semiconductor detectors with different sensitivity characteristics to various neutron energies. By arranging multiple detector portions with different response functions and using coincidence detection logic, the system achieves accurate spectrum measurement without requiring the large physical dimensions of traditional Bonner spheres
2Measurement precision
If Bonner sphere spectrometers are used for neutron spectrum measurement, then neutron spectrum information can be obtained, but the device becomes large and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the neutron detection system into multiple semiconductor detector portions arranged in a compact configuration. Each detector portion contributes to different aspects of spectrum measurement, allowing the system to achieve comprehensive spectrum information while maintaining a small, lightweight form factor compared to traditional Bonner sphere spectrometers
Solution Approach 2:
The invention arranges detector portions in a three-dimensional configuration with non-parallel axes, utilizing spatial arrangement to maximize detection capability within a compact volume. This dimensional approach allows the system to achieve the measurement precision of larger devices while minimizing the physical footprint
3Length of stationary object
If multiple semiconductor detector portions are arranged in close proximity in non-parallel axes, then the device size is reduced, but the complexity of signal allocation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit implements a feedback-based signal allocation system that receives detection signals from multiple detector portions and uses coincidence detection logic to determine channel allocation. The system evaluates the timing and energy information from multiple detectors simultaneously, using feedback loops to resolve ambiguities and allocate signals to appropriate energy channels, thereby managing the complexity of the compact multi-detector configuration
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
Enables the determination of neutron spectra in a physically small and lightweight form, improving the characterization of neutron fields with enhanced energy resolution and sensitivity, particularly for fast and thermal neutrons, while maintaining accuracy in spectrum unfolding.
Implementation Method 1
output a detection signal in response to energy being deposited in the detector by ionising particles
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a converter to convert neutrons to ionizing particles that deposit energy in semiconductor detectors
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide a neutron spectrometry system, comprising a plurality of semiconductor detector portions arranged in close proximity, wherein the detector portions are arranged in at least two non-parallel axes, wherein each detector portion is arranged to output a detection signal indicative of energy deposited in the detector portion by ionising particles induced in the device by incident neutrons, and a control unit arranged to receive the plurality of detection signals, and to allocate detection signals to one or more of a plurality of channels based on a number of substantially coincident detection signals for determining a spectrum of incident neutrons based thereon.