Neutron Detector Photon Counting Position Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional neutron image detectors face challenges with complex and costly signal processing circuits, low detection efficiency, and unsatisfactory position accuracy due to the need for Analog/Digital Converters (ADCs) and the scattering of fluorescent light at gaps in the wavelength shifting fiber or optical fiber configurations.
Innovation Solution
A neutron image detection method using a photon counting technique to determine the incident position by calculating the median point of photon count-value distributions, eliminating the need for ADCs and employing a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) for high-speed processing, thereby simplifying the hardware and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ADC circuits are used to digitize the peak value of analog pulse signals for determining incident position, then position determination can be performed, but the signal processing circuit becomes complicated and requires extraordinary high cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the ADC circuit from the signal processing path by using a photon counting method that directly counts individual photon events through photomultiplier tubes and timing circuits, converting the analog-to-digital conversion requirement into a direct photon counting approach that determines incident position without complex ADC hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electronic ADC-based digital conversion system with a photon counting system that uses time-correlated single photon counting (TCSPC) methodology, substituting the mechanical/electronic analog-to-digital conversion process with a direct photon event counting and timing approach that achieves position determination through statistical analysis of photon arrival times
2Measurement precision
If ADC circuits are used to digitize the peak value of analog pulse signals for determining incident position, then position determination can be performed, but the cost becomes extraordinarily high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the expensive ADC circuit component from the detector system by implementing a photon counting methodology that uses simpler, more cost-effective hardware such as photomultiplier tubes, timing circuits, and photon counting electronics, thereby achieving position determination at a fraction of the cost of ADC-based systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs cost-effective photon counting components and simpler electronic circuits that can be manufactured at lower cost, replacing expensive ADC hardware with more affordable photon detection and timing electronics that achieve the same position determination function at reduced cost
3Measurement precision
If wavelength shifting fibers or optical fibers are used to transmit fluorescent light, then signal transmission can be achieved, but fluorescent light is leaked at the gaps and scattered and diffused, requiring uncommon circuit technology to determine exact incident position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the optical fiber/wavelength shifting fiber transmission system with a direct optical coupling approach where fluorescent light from the scintillator is transmitted through optical windows or direct optical paths to photomultiplier tubes, eliminating the fiber optic components that cause light leakage and scattering at gaps, and thereby simplifying the position determination circuitry
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 approach enables precise and fast neutron image creation with improved position accuracy and reduced hardware complexity, resulting in a more affordable and efficient detection system.
Implementation Method 1
a neutron scintillator or a fluorescent neutron detecting sheet formed together with a fluorescent material
Implementation Method 2
the fluorescent light emitted from the scintillator is converted to the electric signal by the photomultiplier tube
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
A neutron image detection method is disclosed, which collects a fluorescent light generated by a neutron incident at a designated position interval in one-dimensional geometry and determines an incident position of the neutron by detecting the collected fluorescent light, in which the fluorescent light is detected by a photon counting method; a pulse signal generated by an individual output photon is extracted on the basis of a clock signal generated with the same time interval as the time width of the pulse signal generated by a single photon; a count-value distribution is obtained in terms of incident position as variable determined by a single neutron incident by counting the pulse signal output; and a neutron incident position is determined by calculating a median point on the basis of the obtained count-value distribution.