Modular Photon Emitter Verification for Testing Machine Normalization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photon counting systems in testing machines face variability among photomultiplier tubes, leading to inconsistent results due to the lack of a standard photon counting method, and photon emitters based on C14 sources decay quickly, necessitating frequent replacement or re-measurement, which is costly and operationally inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A modular optic module verification device with C14 sources, scintillators, and neutral density filters is used to normalize photon counts across multiple counters, featuring a verification tray with multiple wells and a method for periodic updating of scintillators to maintain consistent photon emission levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If C14-based photon emitters are used for normalization, then photon counting can be performed, but the emitters decay quickly requiring frequent replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The verification device is divided into multiple independent photon emitter modules, each containing a C14 source, scintillator, and filter assembly. This segmentation allows individual modules to be replaced without affecting the entire verification device, extending operational life while maintaining normalization accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces neutral density filters with specific optical densities (e.g., 0.3, 0.6, 0.9) to attenuate photon emissions from C14 sources. By changing the filter parameters, the device can compensate for emitter decay over time and extend the useful life of the verification device while maintaining accurate normalization.
2Productivity
If multiple photon counters are used in testing machines, then higher volume testing is achieved, but intrinsic variability among photomultiplier tubes causes inconsistent readings
Solution Approach 1:
The verification device is designed to work with multiple photon counters simultaneously, providing a universal normalization standard across all counters in the testing machine. Each photon emitter module can be positioned to verify multiple counters, ensuring reading consistency while maintaining high testing volume capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses filters with different optical densities to create a range of photon emission levels that can be used to normalize readings across multiple photon counters with different sensitivities. This allows each counter to be calibrated to a common standard despite intrinsic variability.
3Measurement precision
If frequent replacement or re-measurement of photon emitters is performed, then normalization accuracy is maintained, but operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The verification device includes multiple photon emitter modules that can be pre-positioned and pre-calibrated. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for frequent replacement or re-measurement, maintaining normalization accuracy while improving operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
By incorporating neutral density filters with various optical densities, the device can adjust photon emission levels to compensate for emitter decay over time. This parameter adjustment extends the interval between replacements while maintaining normalization accuracy, reducing operational costs and time loss.
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 solution provides reliable and consistent normalization of photon counts, extending the useful life of the verification device by nearly three times compared to prior art, while maintaining accurate test results and reducing operational costs through modular and customizable design.
Implementation Method 1
each photon emitter includes a C14 source, a scintillator adjacent the source, and a filter over the scintillator
Data Source
AI summary
Example apparatus and methods for use in normalization of testing machines used to test samples in vessels are disclosed. An example apparatus includes verification source and a photon emitter positioned in the verification source. The example photon emitter includes a C14 source, a scintillator adjacent to the C14 source, and a filter adjacent to the scintillator. The example photon emitter is to emit photons through the filter for detection by a photon counter.