Solid State Photomultiplier Microcell Switching for Timing Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solid state photomultipliers in imaging systems face issues with high power requirements and inefficient design due to large output capacitance and high current demands, leading to poor timing resolution and increased power dissipation.
Innovation Solution
A solid state photomultiplier design that includes a microcell configured to generate an analog signal with a quench resistor and a first switch to selectively couple the microcell to the output, utilizing existing discharge current to reduce power requirements and isolate capacitance from the output circuit when not triggered.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional circuitry configurations are used to isolate microcell capacitance, then output capacitance is reduced, but high current is required increasing power dissipation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic switching mechanism where the first switch selectively couples the microcell to the output based on detection state. During normal operation, the switch isolates the microcell capacitance from the output circuit, but when a photon is detected, the switch couples the microcell to output the signal. This dynamic configuration allows timing resolution to be maintained while minimizing power dissipation by avoiding continuous high current draw.
2Measurement precision
If conventional circuitry configurations are used to isolate microcell capacitance, then output capacitance is reduced, but large area is required in the microcell
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the isolation function from the microcell structure itself and implements it externally using the first switch and quench resistor configuration. By taking out the capacitance isolation requirement from the microcell design, the microcell can maintain a compact area while still achieving the necessary capacitance isolation for timing resolution through the external switching mechanism.
3Reliability
If large number of microcells are connected in parallel, then detection capability is improved, but output capacitance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the photomultiplier into multiple independent microcells, each with its own quench resistor and switching mechanism. This segmentation allows each microcell to operate independently with controlled capacitance, maintaining detection capability through parallel operation while preventing capacitance accumulation that would degrade timing resolution. The first switch for each microcell ensures individual capacitance 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
This design significantly reduces power requirements and decreases intrinsic output capacitance, enhancing timing resolution and efficiency by utilizing existing current for signal generation without increasing power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
a microcell configured to generate an analog signal when exposed to optical photons
Implementation Method 2
a quench resistor electrically coupled to the microcell in series
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a solid state photomultiplier are provided herein. In some embodiments, a solid state photomultiplier may include a microcell configured to generate an analog signal when exposed to optical photons, a quench resistor electrically coupled to the microcell in series; and a first switch disposed between the quench resistor and an output of the solid state photomultiplier, the first switch electrically coupled to the microcell via the quench resistor and configured to selectively couple the microcell to the output.