Passive Neutron Sensor Using Charge Accumulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current neutron detection technologies are either bulky, costly, and require external power sources, or they provide delayed and non-real-time data, making them unsuitable for applications requiring compact, low-maintenance, and immediate neutron exposure monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing neutron-sensitive materials that generate charge carriers through nuclear reactions, which accumulate a residual charge within an insulating dielectric, creating a built-in electric potential difference for passive neutron detection without the need for external biasing, enabling compact and real-time monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If gas-filled proportional counters or crystal scintillators are used for neutron detection, then real-time readings and dosage information are provided, but the devices become bulky and delicate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential neutron detection function from complex external systems by using neutron-sensitive materials that directly generate charge carriers within a simplified electrode structure, eliminating the need for bulky gas-filled tubes or crystal scintillators while maintaining real-time detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical and complex electronic systems with a solid-state semiconductor-based detection mechanism where neutron-sensitive materials directly convert neutron interactions into electrical signals through charge carrier generation, enabling compact real-time neutron detection
2Volume of moving object
If actively biased semiconductor devices are used for neutron detection, then the devices become smaller and easier to handle, but external power sources and electronics are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by using neutron-sensitive materials that automatically generate charge carriers through neutron interactions, creating an intrinsic electrical signal without requiring external power sources, biasing circuits, or complex electronics to enable the compact device design
3Use of energy by moving object
If passive neutron detection methods are used, then zero-power operation is achieved, but real-time monitoring capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces passive detection methods with a solid-state semiconductor mechanism where neutron-sensitive materials directly generate charge carriers that can be immediately read as electrical signals, enabling real-time monitoring without power consumption since no external bias or active electronics are needed
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments utilize high energy particles generated by nuclear reactions involving neutron radiation and neutron-sensitive materials to generate and maintain an electric potential gradient between an electrode and a region separated from the electrode by an electric insulator. System and methods contemplated by the invention thereby enable passive detection of neutrons without an externally applied electric potential bias by maintaining a charge accumulation facilitated by nuclear reactions involving neutrons. The charge accumulation produces an electric potential gradient within an electric insulator that separates the charge accumulation from an exterior region.