Radiation Detector Switch Control for Misalignment Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The reduction in yield of X-ray detectors due to misalignment between the scintillator array and the optical sensor array, which affects the accuracy and cost of X-ray CT devices, as higher pixel definition requires precise alignment to the level of several micrometers.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a configuration that includes a control circuitry to adjust the switches between the APD array and the DAS, allowing for the determination of active areas based on the positional relation between the scintillator and APD arrays, ensuring accurate alignment and reducing the negative effects of misalignment, even when positional displacement occurs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If higher pixel definition is used in the scintillator array, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements become more stringent due to the need for precise alignment between scintillator and optical sensor arrays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by determining the positional relationship between the scintillator array and optical sensor array before final assembly, and pre-adjusting the connection relationships. This allows alignment to be established in advance, reducing the stringency of final assembly precision requirements while maintaining high pixel definition
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of connection flexibility by introducing adjustable connection mechanisms between the scintillator array and optical sensor array. This allows the system to accommodate positional deviations through parameter adjustment rather than requiring strict manufacturing precision, thereby enabling higher pixel definition without proportionally increasing alignment difficulty
2Measurement precision
If stricter alignment accuracy is enforced to maintain high pixel definition, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity decreases due to higher rejection rates of misaligned detectors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by introducing adjustable and reconfigurable connection mechanisms between the scintillator array and optical sensor array. Instead of fixed rigid connections that require perfect alignment, the system allows dynamic adjustment of positional relationships, enabling detectors with slight misalignments to be corrected and reused, thereby maintaining high alignment accuracy while reducing rejection rates and improving productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of connection flexibility to accommodate positional variations. By allowing adjustment of the positional parameters between scintillator pixels and optical sensors, the system can compensate for manufacturing tolerances and maintain effective alignment accuracy without strictly enforcing tight manufacturing specifications, thus improving yield while preserving measurement precision
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 configuration improves the yield of X-ray detectors by allowing the use of detectors with higher definition, reducing manufacturing costs and maintaining alignment accuracy, thereby enhancing the performance and efficiency of X-ray CT devices.
Implementation Method 1
a scintillator configured to emit light (scintillation light) in accordance with radiation that enters
Implementation Method 2
an optical sensor array including a plurality of optical sensors each configured to output an electric signal in accordance with the scintillation light
Data Source
AI summary
A radiation detector according to an embodiment includes a scintillator array, a sensor array, electronic circuitry, a switch, and control circuitry. The scintillator array includes a plurality of scintillator pixels each configured to convert radiation into light. The sensor array includes a plurality of detection elements each configured to detect the light. The electronic circuitry is configured to output digital data on the basis of signals output from the detection elements. The switch is provided between the sensor array and the electronic circuitry. The control circuitry is configured to control the switch on the basis of a positional relation between the sensor array and the scintillator array.