Radiation Sensor Signal Correction via Multi-Point Temperature Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Radiation sensors face errors in output signals due to thermal shocks from ambient temperature changes, which existing designs struggle to fully compensate, especially when cold ends are positioned above the frame, leading to systematic temperature imbalances between hot and cold contacts.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that involve obtaining multiple temperature signals from various measurements to correct the output signal, using temperature sensors placed strategically on the sensor element and its components to account for thermal dynamics and imbalances caused by ambient temperature changes, allowing for precise correction of the radiation measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If cold ends are positioned above the frame to serve as thermal mass, then the cold ends are kept at steady temperature, but systematic temperature imbalances occur between hot and cold contacts due to asymmetric arrangement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the actual temperature difference between hot and cold contacts using temperature sensors, comparing it with the desired temperature difference, and dynamically adjusting the measurement algorithm to compensate for thermal imbalances. This closed-loop approach ensures that temperature stability is maintained while correcting measurement errors in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of temperature difference measurement by introducing multiple temperature signals from different locations and time points. Instead of relying on a single temperature difference measurement, the system uses a combination of temperature readings to calculate corrected temperature values, thereby compensating for systematic imbalances caused by asymmetric cold end positioning.
2Measurement precision
If multiple temperature sensors are added to monitor thermal dynamics, then correction accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by designing temperature sensors that serve multiple purposes: monitoring ambient temperature, detecting thermal shocks, measuring temperature differences between hot and cold contacts, and providing data for correction algorithms. This universal approach allows accurate radiation measurement without proportionally increasing device complexity, as the same sensors support multiple measurement and correction functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service by using the temperature sensors to automatically detect and characterize thermal imbalances, then autonomously applying correction algorithms to compensate for these imbalances. The system self-calibrates and self-corrects without requiring external intervention, thereby maintaining high measurement accuracy while minimizing the need for additional complex control mechanisms.
3Reliability
If thermal shock compensation is implemented through multiple temperature measurements, then reliability is improved, but the correction mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by continuously monitoring temperature signals and detecting thermal shocks before they significantly affect the measurement. The system proactively identifies temperature deviations and applies corrections in advance, preventing measurement errors rather than correcting them after they occur. This proactive approach enhances reliability while keeping the correction mechanism relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces temperature difference signals as intermediaries between the raw temperature measurements and the final corrected temperature reading. These intermediate signals represent the thermal imbalance between hot and cold contacts and serve as a bridge for applying corrections. This intermediary approach simplifies the correction mechanism by breaking down the complex correction process into manageable steps based on intermediate temperature difference calculations.
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 significantly enhances the accuracy of radiation measurements by effectively isolating thermal noise from the signal, providing a robust correction mechanism that improves the reliability of temperature readings despite ambient temperature fluctuations.
Implementation Method 1
If the sensing portion 1 comprises a thermopile consisting of a sequence of hot and cold contacts, then the measurement principle is that the incident radiation will transform into a temperature change (usually rise of temperature) at the hot ends/contacts 1a
Implementation Method 2
The membrane 3 serves to thermally insulate the actual sensing portion 1 formed on the top surface of the membrane 3 from the surrounding as far as possible
Implementation Method 3
Heat conduction also takes place between the surrounding atmosphere and the sensor element 10 and the sensing portion 1 thereof, but heat conduction through the substrate 7 is usually much stronger in effect
Implementation Method 4
For enhancing measurement sensitivity, the hot and cold ends may be covered with auxiliary layers, particularly an absorbing layer 5 above the hot ends 1a
Implementation Method 5
a reflecting layer 6 above the cold ends lb
Data Source
AI summary
A method for correcting the output signal of a radiation sensor 20 includes obtaining two or more temperature signals from a corresponding number of measurements of quantities at different times and/or different locations relating to the temperature of the sensor, and correcting the output signal with reference to said temperature signals.