CT Detector Layered Shielding for Radiation and Heat

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Solution Overview

Problem

Computed tomography (CT) detector modules face degradation due to exposure to radiation and heat, leading to inconsistent performance and reduced lifespan, as electronic components are sensitive to radiation and heat generated during signal transmission.

Innovation Solution

The integration of a radiation blocking layer and a thermally insulating layer in the detector module design, where the radiation blocker is positioned between the X-ray sensor assembly and the conductive block to shield the integrated circuit from radiation, and the thermally insulating layer inhibits heat conduction from the integrated circuit to the photodiodes, thereby reducing exposure and heat transfer.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the integrated circuit is positioned close to the photodiodes for efficient signal transmission, then the electrical connection and signal quality are improved, but the integrated circuit is exposed to radiation and heat from the photodiodes, causing degradation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesignal transmission qualityVSAvoidradiation exposure and heat

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A conductive block is positioned between the photodiodes and the integrated circuit to conduct heat away from the photodiodes while a radiation blocker is positioned between the photodiodes and the integrated circuit to block radiation. These intermediary components enable thermal and radiation management while maintaining electrical connection through the conductive block.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The detector module is divided into distinct functional layers: the photodiode layer for signal generation, the conductive block layer for heat management, the radiation blocker layer for radiation protection, and the integrated circuit layer for signal processing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while protecting sensitive elements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Duration of action of stationary object

If a radiation blocker is added to shield the integrated circuit from radiation, then the lifespan and performance of the integrated circuit are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetector module lifespanVSAvoidlayered structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The conductive block serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for mounting the photodiodes, conducts heat away from the photodiodes to prevent thermal degradation, and provides a mounting surface for the integrated circuit. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The radiation blocker is integrated into the detector module structure as a distinct layer within the layered construction, combining radiation protection with the thermal management and mechanical support functions of the conductive block and other layers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If a thermally insulating layer is added to prevent heat conduction from the integrated circuit to the photodiodes, then the performance consistency of the photodiodes is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvephotodiode performance consistencyVSAvoidnumber of layers

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The conductive block provides localized thermal management by conducting heat away from the photodiodes at their specific location, while the radiation blocker provides localized radiation shielding at the interface between the photodiodes and integrated circuit. This targeted approach protects sensitive components without requiring universal shielding throughout the entire device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 enhances the performance and extends the lifespan of CT detector modules by mitigating radiation exposure and heat-induced degradation, ensuring consistent and reliable imaging results.

Implementation Method 1

a radiation blocker positioned between the X-ray sensor assembly and the conductive block, the radiation blocker configured to block penetration of radiation into the conductive block

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRadiation blocking: Absorption (EM radiation)

Implementation Method 2

a thermally insulating layer disposed between the radiation blocker and the conductive block, the thermally insulating layer configured to inhibit conduction of heat from the integrated circuit to the photodiodes

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal insulation: Thermal Insulation

Data Source

PatentUS11294079B2Methods and systems for a layered imaging detector

Publication Date: 2022.04.05 GE PRECISION HEALTHCARE LLC

AI summary

Various methods and systems are provided for an imaging detector array. In one example, a detector module of the array has an X-ray sensor assembly coupled to an upper surface of a conductive block and at least one integrated circuit positioned in a recess of the conductive block below the X-ray sensor assembly. The detector module may further include a radiation blocker positioned between the X-ray sensor assembly and the at least one integrated circuit.