Staggered Radiation Detector Array for Edge Pixel Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radiation inspection systems face challenges with edge pixels in linear detector arrays, which exhibit instability and performance degradation due to differences in pixel width and electric field geometry, and are prone to damage from close proximity and thermal expansion.
Innovation Solution
A radiation detection system with radiation detectors arranged in an alternating or staggered pattern, where each detector is spaced from others, with a collimator having corresponding slots to ensure uniform pixel spacing and reduce gaps, allowing for improved image quality and reduced risk of detector damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If radiation detectors are arranged in a linear array with all pixels in single or multiple rows, then the detector array can cover a scanning area cross section, but edge pixels exhibit different performance versus internal pixels and are prone to instability and performance degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by arranging detectors in two sets (first set with pixels in first row, second set with pixels in second row) where the sets are positioned at different lateral locations. This asymmetric arrangement ensures that no single row of pixels is consistently exposed to edge effects, thereby improving edge pixel stability while maintaining measurement precision across the entire detector array.
2Manufacturing precision
If detectors are placed very close to each other end-to-end to maintain pixel pitch, then pixel pitch remains constant, but adjacent detectors are at risk of being damaged during installation or due to thermal expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the mechanical damage risk by transitioning from a one-dimensional linear arrangement to a two-dimensional staggered arrangement. Detectors in the first and second sets are positioned at different lateral locations, creating spacing in the lateral dimension while maintaining pixel pitch uniformity in the longitudinal dimension. This dimensional change eliminates direct end-to-end contact between adjacent detectors, preventing damage from thermal expansion and installation stress.
3Manufacturing precision
If edge pixels are made undersized to maintain constant pixel pitch and allow gaps, then pixel pitch can be maintained, but exposed unguarded edge pixels exhibit different performance versus internal pixels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple pixel rows by arranging detectors in two sets where the first set has pixels in a first row and the second set has pixels in a second row. This merging approach allows all pixels to be uniformly sized while maintaining constant pixel pitch through the staggered arrangement, eliminating the performance degradation associated with undersized edge pixels.
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 arrangement enhances image quality by maintaining uniform pixel spacing and reduces the risk of detector damage, providing a more stable and effective radiation inspection system with improved performance and reduced leakage current.
Implementation Method 1
radiation-sensitive semiconductor detectors assembled into linear arrays for the purpose of converting radiation impinging on said detectors into corresponding electrical signals
Data Source
AI summary
A radiation detection/imaging system includes a first set of radiation detectors spaced from each other in a first direction and a second set of radiation detectors spaced from each other in the first direction. The second set of radiation detectors is positioned laterally adjacent the first set of radiation detectors and the radiation detectors of the first and second sets of radiation detectors are arranged in an alternating or staggered pattern in the first direction. A composite image can be formed of the passage of radiation through an object acquired by the first and second sets of radiation detectors as the object is translated by the first and second sets of radiation detectors.