Radiation Dose Measuring Tool for Fast Electron-Beam Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring radiation dose in electron beam sterilization of packaging material are inaccurate, time-consuming, and require skilled technicians, leading to potential errors and material waste.
Innovation Solution
A measuring tool comprising transducers, a frame, and connectors that allow for fast and simple measurement of radiation dose without interrupting the sterilization process, using thermocouples, charge collectors, scintillators, or thin film solid state detectors to convert radiation characteristics, with shielding and cooling elements for durability and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If radiochromic film with hand-operated measuring system is used, then measurement accuracy is improved, but measurement time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical measuring system with an automated electronic detection system. Transducers (such as thermocouples, charge collectors, scintillators, or thin film solid state detectors) automatically detect radiation dose and convert it to electrical signals, eliminating the need for manual film handling and hand-operated measurement, thus dramatically reducing measurement time while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring tool is designed to be self-reading and automatically processes measurements. The transducers directly convert radiation characteristics to electrical signals that can be read and processed automatically by the control system, eliminating the need for skilled technicians to perform manual data analysis and reducing human error
2Reliability
If periodic recalibration of measurement equipment is performed, then measurement reliability is improved, but production interruption and time loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates calibration features that allow for quick verification and adjustment during normal operation. The measuring tool can perform self-checks or rapid calibration against known standards without requiring extended shutdowns, preparing the system in advance for accurate measurements while minimizing production disruption
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring tool is designed to enable continuous operation with minimal interruptions. By using transducers that provide immediate electronic readings and allowing for rapid calibration checks, the system maintains continuous measurement capability without the need for lengthy periodic recalibration shutdowns, thus preserving production continuity
3Measurement precision
If transducer is directly exposed to radiation, then measurement sensitivity is improved, but transducer durability and stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces shielding structures with controlled openings or apertures that act as intermediaries between the radiation field and the transducer. These shields allow a controlled amount of radiation to reach the transducer for accurate measurement while protecting the bulk of the transducer from excessive radiation exposure, thus maintaining both sensitivity and stability
Solution Approach 2:
The transducer is designed with non-uniform radiation exposure through selective shielding. Only specific sensitive regions of the transducer are exposed to radiation for measurement, while other regions are protected. This localized exposure strategy maintains measurement precision in the exposed areas while preserving overall transducer stability and longevity
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
Enables precise, rapid measurement of radiation dose with minimal radiation exposure, reducing human error and material waste, and allowing for real-time calibration without process interruption.
Implementation Method 1
At least one of the at least one transducer may be a thermocouple. The thermocouple is advantageous in that a lot of heat is produced by the irradiation process, meaning that thermocouples will yield exact measurements.
Implementation Method 2
At least one of the at least one transducer may be a charge collector. The charge collector is advantageous in that it is easy to use and to transmit the measurement result.
Implementation Method 3
At least one of the at least one transducer may be a scintillator. The scintillator is advantageous in that it is well established for measuring radiation and will yield standardised and reliable measurements.
Implementation Method 4
At least one passive element may further be coupled to the at least one transducer. The passive element is advantageous in that it may have a larger area than the transducer and will not expose the transducer directly to damaging radiation.
Data Source
AI summary
A measuring tool (1) for measuring a delivered dose of radiation emitted by at least one electron beam emitter (2a-b) in an irradiation area (2) used to sterilise packaging material to be later formed into a package is provided. The measuring tool (1) comprises: at least one transducer (3) configured to convert a characteristic of the delivered dose of radiation to another characteristic; a frame (5) configured to hold the at least one transducer (3) and insert the at least one transducer (3) into the irradiation area (2); and at least one connector (7) configured to allow signal transfer from the at least one transducer (3) to a read-out system (9) remote of the irradiation area (2). Use of said tool and a method for calibrating a radiation dose emitted by at least one electron beam emitter (2a-b) in an irradiation area (2) used to sterilise packaging material to be later formed into a package are also provided.