Spectral Conversion Element for Terahertz Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image sensors sensitive to Terahertz radiation are expensive and not widely available, limiting their applications, and existing infrared imaging systems cannot effectively capture images of Terahertz radiation sources, reflectors, or diffusers with sufficient spatial resolution and spectral specificity.
Innovation Solution
A spectral conversion element comprising a two-dimensional support with Terahertz and infrared antennas, thermally coupled within each pixel zone to convert Terahertz radiation into infrared radiation, allowing for the capture of Terahertz images at a cost comparable to infrared imaging systems, with reduced crosstalk and improved spatial resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If Terahertz image sensors are used to capture Terahertz radiation, then Terahertz imaging capability is achieved, but the system cost becomes very high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary spectral conversion element that converts Terahertz radiation to infrared radiation. This element acts as a mediator between the Terahertz scene and the infrared detector, allowing inexpensive infrared cameras to capture Terahertz images. The conversion element includes antennas and thermal coupling structures that transform the radiation type while preserving spatial information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the need for expensive Terahertz sensors with a combination of inexpensive infrared detector and spectral conversion element. The conversion element uses antenna structures and thermal coupling mechanisms to substitute the direct Terahertz detection function, achieving the same imaging capability through a different physical approach.
2Ease of manufacture
If infrared imaging systems are used, then system cost is reduced, but the ability to capture Terahertz radiation is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the radiation parameter from Terahertz to infrared through the spectral conversion element. The element is designed with specific antenna dimensions and thermal coupling characteristics that enable it to absorb Terahertz radiation and re-emit or conduct thermal energy at infrared wavelengths, making the infrared detector sensitive to the original Terahertz scene.
3Productivity
If thermal coupling between Terahertz and infrared antennas is increased within pixel zones, then conversion efficiency is improved, but crosstalk between adjacent pixel zones increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detector surface into discrete pixel zones with thermal isolation structures between them. Each pixel zone contains its own Terahertz and infrared antennas with thermal coupling, while the zones themselves are thermally separated. This segmentation allows strong thermal coupling within zones (for efficiency) while maintaining weak coupling between zones (reducing crosstalk).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements different thermal coupling characteristics in different spatial locations. Within each pixel zone, the thermal coupling between Terahertz and infrared antennas is strong for efficient conversion. Between adjacent pixel zones, the thermal coupling is weak to prevent crosstalk. This local differentiation of thermal properties optimizes both conversion efficiency and signal isolation.
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 the capture of Terahertz images with sharp spatial resolution and multispectral capabilities at a cost similar to infrared imaging, using existing engraving and material deposition techniques, while minimizing interferences between pixel zones.
Implementation Method 1
a first antenna, called Terahertz antenna (2), which is sized to have a first peak for absorbing electromagnetic radiation when a radiation wavelength is between 30 μm and 3 mm
Implementation Method 2
each Terahertz antenna can absorb Terahertz radiation... each pixel zone produces a thermal coupling between the Terahertz and infrared antennas
Implementation Method 3
each infrared antenna can absorb infrared radiation. According to Kirchhoff law... each infrared antenna is also effective for emitting infrared radiation in a spectral window which is superposed to the second electromagnetic radiation absorption peak
Data Source
AI summary
A spectral conversion element for electromagnetic radiation includes Terahertz antennas and infrared antennas which are distributed in pixel zones. The Terahertz antennas and the infrared antennas which are in one same pixel zone are thermally coupled, and those which are in different pixel zones are uncoupled. Such an element enables the capture of images which are formed with Terahertz radiation, by using an infrared image detector.