SiPM Microcell Nonlinear Element Timing Energy Signal Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing silicon photomultipliers face challenges in achieving precise timing information and efficient power consumption due to the need for high-bandwidth electronics for timing triggers, which complicates the detection of the first photon and increases power requirements when both timing and energy signals are derived from the same source.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a non-linear element, such as an NMOS or PMOS transistor, in each microcell to separate timing and energy signals, allowing for a digital trigger line that simplifies and enhances timing resolution while reducing power consumption by using less electronics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high-bandwidth electronics are used for timing triggers to achieve precise timing information, then timing resolution is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the signal processing functions by separating timing trigger detection from energy signal evaluation. Different microcell groups handle timing triggers independently while energy evaluation aggregates signals, reducing the bandwidth requirements for timing electronics and thereby lowering power consumption while maintaining precise timing resolution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic signal routing where microcells can be selectively assigned to timing trigger lines or energy signal lines based on operational requirements. This dynamic allocation allows the system to optimize power consumption by activating only the necessary signal processing paths for each detection event.
2Device complexity
If both timing and energy signals are derived from the same summated signal, then device complexity is reduced, but timing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the microcell array into distinct groups that feed separate timing trigger lines and energy signal lines. This segmentation allows independent optimization of timing and energy signal processing paths, achieving precise timing detection without requiring complex combined electronics for both functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate signal processing stages where timing triggers are detected separately from energy signals. These intermediary detection paths enable precise timing measurement while keeping the overall electronics architecture manageable through functional decomposition.
3Measurement precision
If a fully digital CMOS process is used for avalanche photodiode integration, then timing trigger generation is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the device into different functional regions with different manufacturing requirements. Critical timing microcells use fully integrated CMOS avalanche photodiodes for superior timing performance, while other microcells can use simpler integrated structures, thereby reducing overall production costs while maintaining high timing precision where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different levels of integration complexity to different parts of the device based on functional requirements. Timing-critical microcells receive full CMOS integration treatment, while non-critical microcells use standard integrated structures, optimizing the balance between timing trigger generation quality and manufacturing cost.
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 solution enables simpler and more precise triggering at the first photon detection, reduces power consumption, and lowers production costs by decoupling the electronics requirements for timing and energy signals, making the silicon photomultiplier more efficient and cost-effective.
Implementation Method 1
When a feed voltage is applied, the photodiode, which is usually biased in the reverse direction, connects through to some extent upon the arrival of radiation, for example a photon
Implementation Method 2
This effect is amplified by the avalanche effect in the photodiode
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a Silicon Photomultiplier (SiPM). The SiPM includes a plurality of microcells, a nonlinear element integrated in each one of the plurality of microcells, and a trigger line for outputting a summated current of the plurality of microcells, wherein the nonlinear element provides for a separated timing and energy signal.