Inverted Lateral BJT Charge Sensor for Real-Time Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sensors for radiation and bio-detection face limitations in real-time readout, sensitivity, and portability due to complex structures and the need for specialized instruments, which restrict their application in various environments.
Innovation Solution
A smart charge sensor is developed using an inverted lateral semiconductor-on-insulator (SOI) bipolar junction transistor (BJT) with a detection layer, enabling real-time charge measurement and long-term tracking, and can be engineered for specific applications such as radiation or bio-detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional sensors (Geiger counters, bio-sensors) are used for detection, then detection capability is achieved, but real-time readout and portability are limited due to complex structures and specialized instruments required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the detection function with a standard bipolar junction transistor (BJT) structure. The BJT's base region serves dual purposes: as the active element for charge detection and as the sensing region itself. This integration eliminates the need for separate detection mechanisms and specialized instruments, enabling real-time readout with conventional electronics while maintaining detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The BJT structure is designed to perform multiple functions: charge detection, signal amplification, and real-time readout. The base region acts as both the sensing element and the active component of the transistor, allowing the same structure to detect charges from various sources (radiation, biochemical interactions) without requiring different specialized instruments for each application.
2Measurement precision
If better resolution/sensitivity is achieved in bio-sensors, then detection precision improves, but processing time increases and portability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex biochemical processing mechanisms with the electrical detection mechanism of the BJT. Instead of relying on time-consuming biochemical reactions and laboratory instruments for high sensitivity, the BJT directly detects charges generated by radiation or biochemical interactions through its electrical characteristics, achieving high resolution/sensitivity with real-time readout capability.
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 smart charge sensor provides high sensitivity and long-term charge retention, allowing for real-time measurements and improved detection capabilities without the limitations of existing technologies, making it suitable for diverse applications including radiation and bio-sensing.
Implementation Method 1
A level surface is formed by the collector, the emitter and the base-region barrier opposite the base substrate such that when the level surface is exposed to charge, the charge is measured during operation of the bipolar junction transistor
Implementation Method 2
A sensor includes a collector, an emitter and a base-region barrier formed as an inverted bipolar junction transistor having a base substrate forming a base electrode to activate the inverted bipolar junction transistor
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor includes a collector, an emitter and a base-region barrier formed as an inverted bipolar junction transistor having a base substrate forming a base electrode to activate the inverted bipolar junction transistor. A level surface is formed by the collector, the emitter and the base-region barrier opposite the base substrate such that when the level surface is exposed to charge, the charge is measured during operation of the bipolar junction transistor.