Epoxy-Based Coaxial IR Filter for Dark Matter Detector Noise
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies face challenges in fabricating small infrared filters capable of effectively blocking IR noise to improve the sensitivity of Microwave Kinetic Inductance Detectors (MKIDs) used in dark matter detection.
Innovation Solution
The development of epoxy-based inline infrared filter assemblies, specifically co-axial filters with a magnetically loaded epoxy filling, designed to block IR noise while minimizing reflection and maintaining transmission within the required frequency range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional infrared filters are used, then IR noise blocking is achieved, but the filter size is too large for the application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the filter by using epoxy resin with specific dielectric properties (relative permittivity of 2.8-3.2) and adjusting the dimensions of the co-axial structure to achieve effective IR blocking in a compact form factor suitable for cryogenic detector applications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite structure combining epoxy resin as the dielectric material with metallic co-axial conductors to create an infrared filter that achieves both compact size and effective IR noise blocking performance
2Productivity
If filter size is reduced, then device scalability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses epoxy resin with specific optical properties (transparency in the microwave frequency range) to achieve the desired electromagnetic filtering behavior while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standard fabrication processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs epoxy resin, a cost-effective and easily processable material, to create the dielectric structure of the filter, enabling scalable manufacturing while achieving the required electromagnetic performance for cryogenic detector applications
3Object-affected harmful factors
If epoxy-based co-axial filter structure is used, then IR noise blocking is enhanced, but reflection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces epoxy resin as an intermediary dielectric material between the co-axial conductors to control electromagnetic field distribution and reduce reflection while maintaining effective IR noise blocking performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adjusts the dielectric properties of the epoxy resin (relative permittivity, loss tangent) and the dimensional parameters of the co-axial structure to optimize the balance between IR blocking effectiveness and reflection minimization
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 epoxy-based infrared filter assemblies effectively reduce background IR photon incidence on superconducting substrates, enhancing the sensitivity and performance of MKID-based dark matter detectors by minimizing quasiparticle generation and maintaining optimal electrical characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
co-axial filters with a magnetically loaded epoxy filling, designed to block IR noise
Implementation Method 2
epoxy-based inline infrared filter assemblies, specifically co-axial filters with a magnetically loaded epoxy filling, designed to block IR noise
Implementation Method 3
thin film of superconducting material patterned onto a semiconductor substrate
Implementation Method 4
Any particle incident on the substrate would generate phonons that could break Cooper pairs into quasiparticles, changing the resonating behavior of the device in quantifiable ways
Implementation Method 5
co-axial filters with a magnetically loaded epoxy filling, designed to block IR noise while minimizing reflection and maintaining transmission within the required frequency range
Data Source
AI summary
Epoxy-based inline infrared (IR) filter assembly, and manufacture and use of the same. Co-axial infrared filter assemblies comprise a substantially cylindrical filter body forming a central cavity characterized by opposing holes at each end. The filter body forms an outer conductor, and SMA connectors coupled to the opposing holes at each end of the body are electrically coupled to form an inner conductor positioned along a long axis of the filter body. An infrared absorbing material (such as castable epoxy resin) fills the central cavity of the filter body. Methods for producing the co-axial infrared filter include pressing SMA connectors into the respective ends of the filter body, electrically coupling the SMA connectors, and filling the filter body with epoxy. Electronic systems for operating a dark matter detector include a feedline comprising a coaxial filter configured to advantageously block infrared noise.