Light Shielding Member for Radiation Detector Array Gaps

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing radiation detectors face challenges in securely and easily light shielding the narrow gaps between arrayed detector modules, particularly on the opposite side of the radiation incidence plane, due to the close proximity of electronic devices and the complexity of sealing these gaps with traditional methods.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a support member on the opposite side of the radiation incidence plane to securely position a light shielding member, which covers the gaps between detector modules, using a radiator with integrated or attached support portions that facilitate easy installation and secure sealing, and a light shielding member composed of multiple plates for efficient coverage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional manual sealing methods are used for gaps between detector modules, then light shielding can be achieved, but the work is time-consuming and difficult to perform securely in narrow spaces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight shielding reliabilityVSAvoidease of light shielding installation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The light shielding member is pre-formed with a specific shape including engagement portions that correspond to protrusions on the detector module substrates. This preliminary preparation allows the light shielding member to be easily installed by simply positioning it over the gaps, where it automatically engages with the protrusions, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual sealing operations in narrow spaces

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The light shielding member acts as an intermediary component that bridges the gaps between adjacent detector modules. It features engagement portions that interact with protrusions on the substrates, creating a secure mechanical connection that ensures reliable light shielding without requiring complex manual sealing procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If detector modules are arrayed with high concentration of electronic devices to improve integration, then space is saved and detection capability is improved, but the gaps between modules become narrower and harder to light shield

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection capabilityVSAvoidlight shielding complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The light shielding member is segmented into multiple sections, each with engagement portions designed to fit with protrusions on adjacent detector module substrates. This segmentation allows the light shielding member to adapt to the narrow gaps created by high-density electronic device arrangement while maintaining easy installation and secure light shielding

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Object-affected harmful factors

If light shielding material is used to seal gaps between detector modules, then external light intrusion is prevented, but the installation and maintenance become difficult in constrained spaces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexternal light intrusionVSAvoidease of light shielding maintenance
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The light shielding member serves as an intermediary component that mechanically engages with protrusions on the detector module substrates through its engagement portions. This design creates a secure, reusable connection that prevents external light intrusion while allowing for easy installation and maintenance in constrained spaces without requiring complex sealing procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 solution allows for secure and efficient light shielding of gaps between detector modules, enhancing detection accuracy and reducing the need for manual sealing methods, thereby improving work efficiency and ease of maintenance, especially in constrained spaces.

Implementation Method 1

a light emitting element for emitting fluorescence upon receiving radiation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluorescence: Fluorescence

Implementation Method 2

a light receiving element for converting the fluorescence into an electrical signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric conversion: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS8890080B2Detector module, light shielding member, radiation detecting apparatus, and radiation imaging apparatus
Publication Date: 2014.11.18 GE MEDICAL SYSTEMS GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY CO LLC
  • US8890080B2 patent drawing
  • US8890080B2 patent drawing
  • US8890080B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A detector module configured to be included in an array of a plurality of detector modules that form a radiation detector is provided. The detector module includes a light emitting element configured to emit fluorescence upon receiving radiation, a light receiving element configured to convert the fluorescence into an electrical signal, and at least one support member located on a side opposite from said light emitting element, said at least one support member configured to support a light shielding member which covers a gap formed between adjacent detector modules in the array.