Detector Module Concave Support for Reduced Module Spacing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional photon counting detectors face challenges in reducing the distance between adjacent detector modules due to mechanical stress and squeezing of flexible boards, leading to reduced data collection performance and reliability.

Innovation Solution

The detector module design incorporates a concave structure in the supporting component to accommodate at least a portion of the flexible board, allowing it to be located on the opposite side of the basal board, thereby reducing the distance between adjacent modules and minimizing squeezing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the flexible board is positioned in a conventional manner without accommodation structures, then the assembly is simpler, but the distance between adjacent detector modules increases and the flexible board is subjected to mechanical stress and squeezing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexible board reliabilityVSAvoidsupporting component structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible board is nested within the concave structure of the supporting component, allowing it to be accommodated in a recessed space rather than protruding outward. This nesting approach reduces the overall distance between adjacent detector modules while protecting the flexible board from mechanical stress and squeezing forces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The concave structure introduces a vertical dimension to the supporting component, creating a recessed space that accommodates the flexible board. This dimensional change allows the flexible board to be positioned in three-dimensional space rather than requiring additional horizontal distance, thereby reducing the footprint and distance between adjacent modules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Productivity

If the distance between adjacent detector modules is reduced, then the data collection performance improves, but the flexible board is subjected to increased mechanical stress and squeezing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata collection performanceVSAvoidflexible board reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

By nesting the flexible board within the concave structure, the design enables reduced spacing between adjacent modules without subjecting the flexible board to excessive mechanical stress. The concave structure provides physical protection and proper positioning, allowing the flexible board to withstand the closer proximity of adjacent modules while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The concave structure acts as a protective cushioning element that anticipates and mitigates the mechanical stress and squeezing forces that would otherwise be applied to the flexible board when modules are positioned close together. This beforehand cushioning allows for reduced inter-module distance while preserving flexible board integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Length of stationary object

If the flexible board is accommodated in a concave structure, then the distance between adjacent modules is reduced and squeezing is minimized, but the supporting component becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedistance between detector modulesVSAvoidsupporting component structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The concave structure is integrated directly into the supporting component as a unified element, merging the support function with the accommodation function. This combination eliminates the need for separate accommodation structures or additional components, thereby reducing overall system complexity while achieving the goal of reduced inter-module distance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The supporting component is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a structural support element and as an accommodation structure for the flexible board. The concave structure simultaneously provides mechanical support and spatial accommodation, reducing the need for additional specialized components and simplifying the overall device architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 enhances data collection performance and reliability by reducing the distance between detector modules and preventing flexible board squeezing, improving signal transmission efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

The detector crystal may be mounted on a side of the basal board and configured to receive rays from a subject and generate a detection signal based on the rays

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentEP4330730B1Detector module
Publication Date: 2025.09.17 SHANGHAI UNITED IMAGING HEALTHCARE
  • EP4330730B1 patent drawingFigure 1A
  • EP4330730B1 patent drawingFigure 1B
  • EP4330730B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3

AI summary

A detector module(100) may be provided. The detector module(100) may comprise one or more detector elements(10). Each of the one or more detector elements(10) may include a detector crystal(110), a basal board(120), a supporting component(140), and a flexible board(130). The detector crystal(110) may be mounted on a side of the basal board(120) and configured to receive rays from a subject and generate a detection signal based on the rays. The supporting component(140) may be configured to support the basal board(120). The supporting component(140) may include a concave structure(141) for accommodating at least a portion of the flexible board(130).