Multi-sensor Neutron Source Location via Directional Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current neutron detection technologies face challenges such as false alarms from natural backgrounds, inefficiency in detecting fast neutrons, and lack of directional information, making it difficult to accurately locate neutron-emitting sources, especially in portable and mobile applications.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising multiple neutron detectors that use elastic scattering and ionization to create an image of the neutron's path, coupled with a central processor to compute the neutron's direction and location, allowing for precise determination of neutron-emitting sources through directional imaging and triangulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If gamma radiation detection is used to detect SNM, then detection capability is provided, but false alarms from natural background radiation increase and detection reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the detection function into multiple independent neutron detectors, each capable of detecting neutrons independently. This segmentation allows the system to distinguish between neutron signals and gamma background by analyzing the spatial distribution and temporal correlation of detections across multiple detectors, thereby reducing false alarms while maintaining detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary imaging system that converts neutron detection signals into visual images representing neutron paths. This intermediary representation allows for intuitive analysis and differentiation between genuine neutron sources and background radiation, improving reliability by enabling operators to visually identify true positives amidst false alarms.
2Productivity
If nuclear absorption process is used in neutron detectors, then thermal neutron detection is achieved, but fast neutron detection efficiency remains low
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the detection parameter by using elastic scattering off protons in a liquid scintillator rather than relying solely on nuclear absorption. This parameter change enables efficient detection of fast neutrons through the recoiling proton signal, while the same detector can also detect thermal neutrons through capture gamma rays, thus achieving broad neutron energy range coverage.
3Measurement precision
If neutron detectors without directional capability are used, then detection coverage is maximized, but location precision is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds the dimensional aspect of directionality to neutron detection by imaging the paths of neutrons as they traverse the detector. This dimensional enhancement transforms scalar detection counts into vector-based path information, enabling precise source location through triangulation while maintaining relatively simple detector geometry through the power of image processing.
4Adaptability or versatility
If permanently installed neutron detectors are used, then detection stability is improved, but mobility and adaptability to different locations are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static permanently installed detectors to dynamic portable detectors that can be moved between locations. The detection algorithm and imaging processing are designed to work effectively with mobile deployment, maintaining detection stability through consistent processing methods while enabling adaptability to different field locations through portability.
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 system provides accurate and directional detection of neutrons, reducing false alarms and enabling the precise location of neutron sources, even in mobile and challenging environments, with improved efficiency in detecting both thermal and fast neutrons.
Implementation Method 1
A system comprising multiple neutron detectors that use elastic scattering and ionization to create an image of the neutron's path
Implementation Method 2
A system comprising multiple neutron detectors that use elastic scattering and ionization to create an image of the neutron's path
Implementation Method 3
each neutron detector being configured to produce an image of a path of light depicting a direction of travel of an incoming neutron
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for determining a location of a neutron emitting source includes: a plurality of neutron detectors configured to receive incoming neutrons from an area of interest, each neutron detector being configured to produce an image of a path of light depicting a direction of travel of an incoming neutron; and a central processor coupled to each neutron detector in the plurality of neutron detectors and configured to receive the direction of travel of the incoming neutron from each neutron detector and to compute the location using the received directions.