Low Terahertz Detector Using Electron Beam Path Deviation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current technologies face challenges in effectively detecting low terahertz electromagnetic radiation using conventional methods, as they struggle to couple and transfer this radiation onto electron beams for detection, especially in ultra-small resonant structures.

Innovation Solution

The development of ultra-small resonant structures that react to electron beams by inducing surface plasmons, allowing for the conversion of electron beam energy into electromagnetic radiation, which is then detectable, and the use of a receiver system with a controller to selectively activate EMR sources and detect changes in electron beam paths based on incident radiation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional detection methods are used for low terahertz radiation, then detection capability is limited, but device complexity and energy consumption increase without sufficient sensitivity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection sensitivityVSAvoiddetection system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an electron beam as an intermediary carrier to transfer and detect low terahertz radiation information. The electron beam interacts with the resonant structure modulated by low terahertz radiation, converting electromagnetic signal modulation into detectable electron beam path or energy changes, thereby achieving sensitive detection without complex direct terahertz detection systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces direct electromagnetic radiation detection with a charged particle beam-based detection mechanism. By using electron beams that interact with resonant structures modulated by low terahertz radiation, the system converts electromagnetic field interactions into charged particle trajectory or energy changes that are easier to detect with conventional equipment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If ultra-small resonant structures are used to couple EMR onto electron beams, then detection sensitivity improves, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection sensitivityVSAvoidresonant structure fabrication precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent optimizes key parameters of the resonant structures including size, shape, material composition, and geometric configuration to achieve desired resonance frequencies and coupling efficiencies. By carefully selecting and adjusting these parameters, the system achieves effective low terahertz coupling while maintaining manufacturability through standard fabrication techniques

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If electron beam energy is converted into electromagnetic radiation through surface plasmons, then radiation detection capability improves, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveradiation detection capabilityVSAvoidelectron beam energy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses periodic modulation of the electron beam parameters (such as beam current, energy, or trajectory) synchronized with the resonant frequency of the structure. This periodic interaction enhances the conversion efficiency from electron beam energy to electromagnetic radiation through surface plasmon excitation, improving signal strength while managing energy consumption through resonant enhancement

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes surface plasmon resonance, a collective oscillation mode that occurs at specific energy thresholds, to efficiently convert electron beam energy into electromagnetic radiation. By operating at these resonant phase transitions, the system achieves enhanced energy conversion efficiency and detection sensitivity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #36Phase transitions

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 the detection of low terahertz radiation by coupling EMR onto electron beams, allowing for the detection of materials and chemicals through changes in electron beam paths, improving sensitivity and specificity in applications like night vision and chemical detection.

Implementation Method 1

When the electron beam passes near the structure, it excites synchronized oscillations of the electrons in the structure (surface plasmons) and/or electrons in the beam

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSurface plasmons: Plasma

Implementation Method 2

detecting changes in electron beam paths based on incident radiation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectron beam interaction with electromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS7659513B2Low terahertz source and detector

Publication Date: 2010.02.09 ADVANCED PLASMONICS

AI summary

A detector system for performing at least one of transmitting and receiving electromagnetic radiation at a low-terahertz frequency. The detection of electromagnetic radiation at low-terahertz frequencies can be useful in the detection of various chemicals. Preferably a detector includes a microresonant structure that is caused to resonate by electromagnetic radiation at a low-terahertz frequency. The resonance is detected by detecting an altered path of a charged particle beam.