Counting X-ray Detector Time-Multiplexed Threshold Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current counting X-ray detectors face challenges in achieving high spectral resolution due to space constraints on the ASIC, limiting the number of energy thresholds that can be implemented, which is costly to reduce with advanced technologies like 130 nm or 90 nm processes, and does not reduce the size or production costs of the detector.
Innovation Solution
The method involves subdividing the time interval during which X-rays are applied into sub-time intervals, allowing the X-ray detector to measure incident X-rays in different spectral regions, using a single DAC and discriminator, and applying multiple threshold values sequentially to achieve high spectral resolution without increasing ASIC space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple discriminators and DACs are provided per pixel element to achieve high spectral resolution, then spectral resolution is improved, but ASIC space requirements and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by sequentially switching between different threshold values in different time intervals. Instead of having multiple discriminators operate simultaneously, a single discriminator is switched to different threshold levels at different times, allowing energy-selective measurement across multiple energy ranges using the same hardware component repeatedly through time-multiplexed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the threshold value changeable over time. The discriminator's threshold is dynamically adjusted between different energy levels for different time intervals, allowing the system to adapt its energy selection without requiring multiple fixed-threshold discriminators. This dynamic switching enables high spectral resolution with a single configurable component.
2Measurement precision
If multiple discriminators and DACs are provided per pixel element to achieve high spectral resolution, then spectral resolution is improved, but area of ASIC increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single discriminator by making it capable of operating at multiple threshold levels sequentially. Instead of having separate discriminators for different energy thresholds, the same discriminator is combined with time-multiplexed threshold switching, consolidating what would require multiple discrete components into one shared resource that serves multiple energy-selection functions.
Solution Approach 2:
By using periodic time-multiplexed switching of the threshold value, the patent enables a single discriminator to perform the work of multiple discriminators over time. The discriminator is repeatedly switched to different threshold levels in different time intervals, achieving high spectral resolution without the area cost of multiple simultaneous discriminators.
3Area of moving object
If advanced technologies like 130 nm or 90 nm processes are used to reduce component size, then component size is reduced, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the need for multiple discriminators and DACs by realizing that a single discriminator with time-multiplexed threshold switching can replace multiple simultaneous discriminators. This extraction of the multiplicity requirement eliminates the need for advanced (and costly) miniaturization technologies, as the reduced component count naturally reduces area requirements without requiring 130 nm or 90 nm process technologies.
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 approach enables the generation of energy-selective image data with improved spectral resolution, reducing the need for additional electronics components on the ASIC, allowing for quick measurement of various X-ray spectra while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
direct converter (e.g., CdTe or CZT), and the charge carrying pairs that are generated
Implementation Method 2
scintillators that convert X-ray beams into comparatively low-energy radiation, for example, into visible light
Implementation Method 3
the charge carrying pairs that are generated are separated via an electric field that is generated by a shared top electrode 26 and a pixel electrode 25
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for receiving energy selective image data relating to an examination object using a counting, digital X-ray detector, together with a counting, digital X-ray detector and an X-ray system are provided. The X-ray detector includes an X-ray converter for direct or indirect conversion of X-rays into an electrical signal, and a matrix including a plurality of counting pixel elements. For each pixel element of the plurality of counting pixel elements, at least one modifiable threshold value, above which an incoming signal is counted using a memory unit, is applicable.