Flexible Cable OSL Radiation Detector for Curved Duct Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radiation-detecting devices are limited in their ability to detect radiation in curved ducts and require dismantling for measurement, are bulky for low-diameter conduits, and have insufficient resolution at low dose rates, necessitating access to both ends of the duct and being prone to electromagnetic interference.
Innovation Solution
A flexible cable with miniature optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) detectors and optical fibers, allowing for simultaneous exposure and measurement without the need for dismantling, capable of withstanding high radiation levels and long cable lengths, and providing accurate dose rate measurements across a wide range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If thermo-luminescent dosimeters are used, then contamination measurement is enabled, but dismantling is required for measurement and they cannot be used operationally
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical dismantling requirement with an operational device that can be left in place. The OSL detector with optical fiber coupling enables continuous operational use without requiring physical dismantling for measurement, resolving the contradiction between measurement capability and operational usability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection technology from thermo-luminescent dosimeters to optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) detectors with optical fiber coupling. This parameter change enables the device to remain operational while maintaining measurement capability, eliminating the need for dismantling.
2Measurement precision
If Geiger-Muller detectors are used, then radiation detection is enabled, but the device becomes bulky and cannot fit in low-diameter conduits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection system into a distributed array of miniature OSL detectors along a flexible cable. Each detector element is miniaturized to fit within low-diameter conduits while maintaining detection capability through the optical fiber coupling system that distributes signals along the cable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a flexible cable structure with thin-walled protection to house the miniature detectors. This flexible shell approach allows the detector array to be inserted into and navigate through low-diameter conduits while maintaining the integrity and functionality of the detection elements.
3Length of stationary object
If Geiger-Muller detectors with long cable lengths are used, then detection range is extended, but signal transmission is disturbed and resolution is insufficient at low dose rates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrical signal transmission with optical fiber transmission for the detection system. This substitution eliminates electromagnetic interference and signal degradation over long distances, enabling extended cable lengths while maintaining high resolution at low dose rates through optical signal fidelity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the signal transmission medium from electrical to optical. This parameter change enables long cable lengths without signal degradation, as optical fibers maintain signal integrity over extended distances, thereby preserving dose rate resolution even at low radiation levels.
4Measurement precision
If conventional detectors are used, then radiation measurement is enabled, but access to both ends of the duct is required for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection system into a flexible cable with distributed detectors that can be inserted from one end. This segmentation allows the entire detection array to be propelled through the duct from a single access point, eliminating the need for access to both ends for installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a dynamic insertion mechanism where the flexible cable with detectors can be propelled through the duct system. This dynamic approach allows installation from one end while the detectors are distributed along the cable length, providing measurement capability without requiring dual-end access.
5Measurement precision
If detectors are used in high radiation levels, then detection is enabled, but the detectors are damaged by high dose rates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detector technology to OSL detectors with enhanced radiation hardness. This parameter change in the detection medium allows the detectors to withstand high radiation levels and dose rates while maintaining measurement capability and reliability in high-radiation environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates radiation-hardened OSL detectors that are inherently resistant to radiation damage. This beforehand cushioning in the form of radiation-hardened detection material allows the system to operate reliably in high-radiation environments without degradation of performance.
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 efficient, non-invasive radiation mapping in curved ducts with high sensitivity and resolution, reducing exposure time and logistical challenges, while maintaining accuracy and stability over extended periods.
Implementation Method 1
each detector comprising an optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) detection element which is optically coupled to at least one optical fibre
Implementation Method 2
each OSL detection element being held opposite a first end of the optical fibre by a mechanical part fixed to the support cable
Data Source
AI summary
A radiation-detecting device including at least two radiation detectors distributed in series along a support cable, each detector including an optically stimulated luminescence detection element which is optically coupled to at least one optical fiber, each optically stimulated luminescence detection element being held opposite a first end of the optical fiber by a mechanical part fixed to the support cable, the mechanical part being held in a flexible cable by a holding mechanism, second ends of each optical fiber leading to the same first end of the flexible cable.