SiPM Gain Stabilization via Temperature-Adaptive Bias

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Solution Overview

Problem

Silicon photomultiplier (SiPM) devices experience inaccuracies in light detection due to temperature variations, which affect their output gain.

Innovation Solution

A method involving activating the SiPM in forward or reverse bias modes, measuring response signals, determining the device temperature, and adjusting the operational reverse bias mode voltage to maintain constant gain, thereby correcting for temperature-induced inaccuracies.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If SiPM operates at fixed operating voltage, then device simplicity is maintained, but gain varies by 1-2% per°C due to temperature changes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperating voltage controlVSAvoidlight detection accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the operating voltage of the SiPM based on measured temperature. Instead of maintaining a fixed voltage, the system modifies the voltage parameter in response to temperature variations, thereby compensating for gain changes and maintaining measurement precision without requiring complex additional hardware.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If temperature compensation is implemented, then light detection precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelight detection accuracyVSAvoidtemperature correction system

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback by measuring the temperature of the SiPM and using this information to adjust the operating voltage accordingly. The system continuously monitors temperature and applies real-time corrections to the voltage, creating a closed-loop control mechanism that improves precision while keeping the complexity manageable through the use of existing SiPM characteristics.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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

The method effectively corrects for temperature-induced inaccuracies in SiPM performance, ensuring precise light detection and maintaining consistent gain across varying temperatures.

Implementation Method 1

SiPMs are highly sensitive light detectors that are used in a variety of applications involving the measurement of low light levels

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotoelectric effect: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

The gain at a fixed operating voltage can vary by as much as 1%-2% per° C. under typical operating conditions

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal effect on semiconductor properties: Temperature Gradient

Data Source

PatentUS20250130105A1Methods and devices for obtaining silicon photomultiplier data

Publication Date: 2025.04.24 MESO SCALE TECH LLC

AI summary

Systems and methods for improving assay results obtained by silicon photomultiplier devices are provided. Systems may include assay devices including silicon photomultiplier devices and computing systems. Systems may further include processing components and storage units configured for receiving silicon photomultiplier device input and output information and for determining silicon photomultiplier device temperatures.