Reconfigurable Single-Photon Imaging Controller for Rapid Mode Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional single-photon detection systems are limited by high-speed data rates that overwhelm host computer devices and require fixed hardware configurations for specific applications, lacking the ability to rapidly switch between imaging modes.

Innovation Solution

An imaging system with a reconfigurable controller using a reprogrammable logic device and high-speed data link enables real-time switching between operational modes through software reconfiguration, utilizing a single-photon detector and synchronized time gating for precise photon detection and storage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If conventional single-photon detection systems are used, then high-speed data rates are achieved, but host computer devices are overwhelmed and cannot manage the data

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata rateVSAvoidhost computer device management

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

A reconfigurable controller is introduced as an intermediary device between the single-photon detector and the host computer. The controller manages the high-speed data stream from the detector, performing buffering, processing, and intelligent data transmission to the host computer, thereby preventing the host from being overwhelmed while maintaining the high data acquisition rate.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If fixed hardware configurations are used for specific applications, then specialized imaging functions are achieved, but the system cannot rapidly switch between different imaging modes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimaging function specializationVSAvoidmode switching capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The controller is designed with reconfigurable logic that can dynamically change its operational parameters and control sequences. This allows the system to adapt between different imaging modes (such as FLIM, FCS, SRM, Raman spectroscopy, and NIROT) by reprogramming the controller's logic, eliminating the need for fixed hardware configurations for each specific application.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If high-speed data recording is implemented, then data acquisition speed is improved, but conventional spinning disks cannot keep up with the data rate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata acquisition speedVSAvoiddata writing speed

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The reconfigurable controller acts as a data management intermediary that buffers high-speed data from the detector and intelligently manages transmission to storage devices. It can prioritize critical data, compress data streams, and coordinate with high-speed storage systems, bridging the gap between ultra-fast detection and the limitations of conventional storage media.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Adaptability or versatility

If reconfigurable controller with reprogrammable logic device is used, then rapid mode switching is enabled, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemode switching capabilityVSAvoidcontroller configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The reconfigurable controller is designed as a universal platform that can perform multiple imaging functions through software reconfiguration rather than requiring separate specialized hardware for each function. The single controller unit can be reprogrammed to handle different imaging modes, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 rapid mode switching within seconds, managing high data rates and facilitating simultaneous detection of Raman and fluorescence signals, enhancing signal-to-noise ratios and molecular process analysis without hardware changes.

Implementation Method 1

A single-photon detector (SPD) is a device configured to emit a signal for each photon detected

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

through a reconfiguration of the software associated with the reprogrammable logic device of the imaging system controller

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectReprogrammable Logic:

Data Source

PatentUS12455243B2Single-photon imaging system with reconfigurable controller for rapid switching between imaging modes

Publication Date: 2025.10.28 FEI DEUT

AI summary

An imaging system having one or more single-photon detectors is configured to enable rapid switching between different operational modes. The imaging system includes a reprogrammable controller communicatively coupled to one or more single-photon detectors and to a host computer device via a high-speed data link. In operation, the one or more single-photon detectors are operated according to a first operational mode. A reprogrammable logic device of the controller is then reconfigured to operate the one or more single-photon detectors in a second operational mode without requiring changes to the overall hardware configuration/setup of the imaging system.