Integrated Optical Modulator Shield for Compact Radiation Sensors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current radiation sensors are bulky due to the need for external mechanical choppers, which complicates their characterization systems and increases size.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a suspended movable structure with a conductive main shield and a secondary shield within the sensor, allowing for internal chopper functionality and modulating radiation intensity without external components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an external mechanical chopper is used to modulate radiation intensity, then the sensor characterization is improved, but the system size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the chopper functionality directly into the sensor device by incorporating a movable shield structure that can be actuated to modulate radiation reaching the detection elements. This merging of the chopper function into the sensor itself eliminates the need for separate external chopper mechanisms, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining the ability to perform accurate sensor characterization through radiation modulation
Solution Approach 2:
The movable shield structure serves multiple functions: it acts as a chopper to modulate radiation intensity for characterization purposes, provides shielding to block unwanted radiation, and can be controlled to create specific radiation patterns. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate components, reducing overall system complexity while enabling comprehensive sensor testing
2Measurement precision
If an external mechanical chopper is used to modulate radiation intensity, then the sensor characterization is improved, but the system volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The chopper functionality is nested within the sensor device structure itself. The movable shield is positioned within the sensor housing and operates in conjunction with the detection elements, effectively nesting the chopper function inside the sensor volume rather than requiring external space. This nesting approach maintains characterization capabilities while minimizing system volume
3Device complexity
If external chopper components are integrated into the sensor, then the sensor size is reduced, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor device is segmented into distinct functional modules: a fixed shield portion, a movable shield portion, and detection elements. The movable shield is further divided into multiple independently controllable sections. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately using standard processes and then assembled, reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite the integrated design
Solution Approach 2:
The shield structure incorporates movable portions that can be actuated independently of fixed portions. This dynamic design allows the movable shield sections to be controlled separately to create different radiation modulation patterns. The dynamic capability is achieved through simple actuation mechanisms that can be integrated into existing sensor manufacturing processes, balancing functionality with manufacturability
Data Source
AI summary
Radiation sensor including a detection assembly and a chopper assembly, which are mechanically coupled to delimit a main cavity; and wherein the chopper assembly includes: a suspended movable structure, which extends in the main cavity; and an actuation structure, which is electrically controllable to cause a change of position of the suspended movable structure. The detection unit includes a detection structure, which faces the main cavity and includes a number of detection devices. The suspended movable structure includes a first shield of conductive material, which shields the detection devices from the radiation, the shielding of the detection devices being a function of the position of the suspended movable structure.