Flexible Radiation Detector With Bragg Grating Shape Correction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing radiation detectors are either rigid and flat, limiting their application to flat surfaces, or flexible but unable to accurately determine their shape, leading to image distortions and inadequate data interpretation.

Innovation Solution

A radiation detector with a flexible planar support and integrated shape detection device using Bragg gratings in waveguides to detect and correct curvature, allowing accurate image rectification and flexible application on complex shapes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a flexible planar support is used to enable curved detector configurations, then adaptability to different geometries is improved, but image distortion and measurement data evaluation accuracy deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different geometriesVSAvoidimage data evaluation accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism by incorporating a shape detection device that continuously monitors the actual position and orientation of the flexible support. This shape information is fed back to an evaluation device that uses it to correct image distortions, thereby maintaining measurement precision despite the flexibility and curvature of the detector.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary shape detection device (using Bragg gratings in waveguides) that mediates between the flexible support structure and the image evaluation system. This intermediary captures shape information and transforms it into corrective data, enabling accurate image evaluation even when the detector is curved or deformed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of manufacture

If conventional flat X-ray detectors are used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but the ability to detect radiation in curved geometries deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetector manufacturing simplicityVSAvoidcurved geometry detection capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the principle of flexible shells by using a thin, flexible planar support that can be easily manufactured but also deformed into curved configurations. This flexible support maintains the simplicity of manufacturing a flat detector while enabling adaptation to curved geometries through controlled deformation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces dynamics by making the planar support flexible rather than rigid, allowing it to adapt its shape dynamically to different detection geometries. The support can be bent or deformed as needed, transforming a static flat detector into a dynamic system that can assume various curved configurations while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If the radiation detector is made freely movable and flexible, then ease of operation is improved, but shape control and image distortion correction become more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetector mobility and flexibilityVSAvoidshape detection and correction system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service by incorporating autonomous shape detection capabilities directly into the flexible support structure. The Bragg grating-based shape detection device automatically monitors and reports the support's configuration without external intervention, enabling the system to self-correct for image distortions and maintain accuracy despite free movement and flexible deformation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 flexible radiation detection with precise shape determination and image correction, suitable for complex geometries without requiring precise positioning, enhancing reliability and lifespan of electronic components.

Implementation Method 1

The shape detection device has at least one first waveguide into which at least one Bragg grating is incorporated

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBragg diffraction: Bragg Diffraction

Implementation Method 2

The at least one waveguide can be implemented, for example, as a polymer fiber or a glass fiber

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTotal internal reflection: Total Internal Reflection

Implementation Method 3

The radiation detection device is designed and intended to convert incident radiation into electrical signals

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric effect: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 4

The scintillator layer converts X-rays into visible light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScintillation: Scintillation

Data Source

PatentEP4407350B1Radiation detector and method of using the same
Publication Date: 2026.04.29 FRAUNHOFER GESELLSCHAFT ZUR FORDERUNG DER ANGEWANDTEN FORSCHUNG EV
  • EP4407350B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4407350B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4407350B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The invention relates to a radiation detector (1) with at least one radiation detection device (2) and with at least one planar support (3) on which the radiation detection device (2) is mounted, wherein the planar support (3) is flexible in at least one spatial direction and includes a shape detection device (4) which is configured to detect the shape of the support (3) and includes at least one waveguide (40) in which at least one Bragg grating is inserted, wherein the waveguide (40) is embedded in the planar support (3). The invention further relates to a method for detecting radiation with such a radiation detector (1).