Terahertz Pixel Sensor With Phase-Aligned Synchronous Filtering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current terahertz image sensors face challenges in producing low-cost, integrated terahertz image matrix sensors due to difficulties in implementing synchronous demodulation methods, particularly in achieving phase alignment between control and measured signals, which affects signal amplification and spatial resolution.
Innovation Solution
A terahertz image sensor design incorporating a matrix of pixels with an antenna for receiving modulated terahertz radiation and a synchronous filter with N paths, each comprising capacitive and resistive elements, along with switch-controlled circuits, to filter and amplify signals independently of phase differences, using a modulation frequency between 10 kHz and 1 MHz.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If synchronous demodulation methods are implemented in terahertz image sensors, then signal amplification and spatial resolution are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is divided into a matrix of independent pixels, each with its own antenna and synchronous filter. This segmentation allows each pixel to process signals independently, achieving high spatial resolution while using standardized, low-complexity building blocks that can be manufactured using standard CMOS processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements synchronous demodulation using periodic switching at the modulation frequency. Each pixel's synchronous filter switches periodically to demodulate the modulated terahertz signal, enabling signal amplification and noise extraction without requiring complex continuous processing circuits.
2Measurement precision
If phase alignment between control and measured signals is achieved, then signal processing accuracy is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each pixel generates its own control signal locally, which is used to drive the synchronous switching of its own filter. This self-service approach ensures automatic phase alignment between the control signal and the measured signal, eliminating the need for complex external phase synchronization circuits and reducing manufacturing precision requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronous filter circuit is designed to be universal across all pixels in the matrix. Each pixel uses the same standardized circuit design that inherently produces phase-aligned control and measured signals, allowing mass production using standard CMOS processes without requiring pixel-specific phase calibration.
3Ease of manufacture
If low-cost integrated production is implemented, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but signal processing performance may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical or external synchronization systems with integrated CMOS electronic circuits. Each pixel's synchronous filter is fully integrated using standard semiconductor manufacturing processes, eliminating the need for expensive external components while maintaining high signal processing performance through on-chip phase-aligned demodulation.
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 enables efficient signal processing and amplification, effectively extracting useful signals from noise while maintaining low-cost and integrated production, enhancing spatial resolution and reducing phase shift issues across pixels.
Implementation Method 1
an antenna for receiving terahertz radiation modulated by a signal at a modulation frequency
Implementation Method 2
each path comprising a capacitive element and at least one first switch controlled by a first signal at said modulation frequency
Implementation Method 3
each path further comprises a first resistive element
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a terahertz image matrix sensor comprising a matrix of pixels and comprising, for each pixel, an antenna (32) for receiving a terahertz radiation modulated by a signal at a modulation frequency and a synchronous filter (40) with N pathways, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 4, each pathway comprising a capacitive element and at least one first breaker controlled by a first signal at said modulation frequency.