Radiation Detector Pixel Architecture for Precision Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Radiographic imaging devices face challenges in accurately detecting radiation due to differences in pixel configurations, leading to defects and reduced precision, especially when pixels with varying configurations are tested or used for radiation detection.

Innovation Solution

A radiation detector design that includes imaging and radiation detection pixels with similar configurations, where the second sensor portion outputs charges directly to an external connection without passing through a switching element, allowing for precise radiation detection and simplifying testing by matching the correspondence between irradiated radiation and charge generation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If pixels with different configurations (imaging pixels and radiation detection pixels) are provided in the radiation detector, then radiation detection function is achieved, but manufacturing limitations and inspection difficulties occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveradiation detection functionVSAvoidfabrication limitations
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by making radiation detection pixels have the same configuration pattern as imaging pixels. Both pixel types include identical sensor portions (first and second sensor portions) and switching elements. This uniform configuration allows the same fabrication processes and inspection methods to be used for all pixels, eliminating manufacturing limitations while maintaining the specialized radiation detection function through selective wiring connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If pixels with different configurations are provided, then radiation detection capability is enabled, but inspection device specifications are limited and accurate examination cannot be performed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveradiation detection capabilityVSAvoidinspection difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies homogeneity by ensuring all pixels in the radiation detector have the same configuration pattern, including identical sensor portions and switching elements. This uniformity allows inspection devices to use standard specifications and procedures for all pixels without encountering configuration variations that would complicate or prevent accurate examination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #33Homogeneity

3Device complexity

If the second sensor portion outputs charges through a switching element in radiation detection pixels, then charge reading is unified, but radiation detection precision is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharge reading unificationVSAvoidradiation detection precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by separating the charge output paths: in radiation detection pixels, the second sensor portion connects directly to the output without passing through the switching element, while in imaging pixels, the second sensor portion connects through the switching element. This segmentation allows radiation detection pixels to achieve high precision by avoiding switching element interference, while imaging pixels maintain unified charge reading through the switching element.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 accurate and precise radiation detection while simplifying testing processes, reducing the likelihood of pixels being detected as defective and improving the overall precision of radiographic imaging.

Implementation Method 1

Each of the pixels includes a sensor portion, such as a photoelectric conversion element, that generates charges when irradiated with radiation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric conversion: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS9006675B2Radiation detector, radiographic imaging device and radiographic imaging system
Publication Date: 2015.04.14 FUJIFILM CORP
  • US9006675B2 patent drawing
  • US9006675B2 patent drawing
  • US9006675B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides a radiation detector, a radiographic imaging device, and a radiographic image system that may be easily tested and may precisely detect radiation. Namely, pixels each includes a sensor portion A and a sensor portion B. In imaging pixels, the sensor portion A and the sensor portion B are connected by a connection line, and charges generated in the sensor portion A and in the sensor portion B are read by a TFT switch and output to a signal line. In radiation detection pixels, charges generated in the sensor portion A are read by a TFT switch and output to a signal line. Further, in the radiation detection pixels, the sensor portion B and the signal line are directly connected by a connection line, and the charges generated in the sensor portion B are output to the signal line as they arise.