Photon Detector

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This invention describes a photon detector equipped with a photocathode and a pixelated electron detector array that can both locate the position and precisely time the arrival of individual photons. The detector converts the analog electron signal—produced when photons hit the photocathode—into digital signals with high time resolution, while electronic discriminators reduce noise. Special clock and counting circuits per pixel allow the system to determine exactly when and where each photon-induced electron arrives, enabling both spatial and temporal mapping of photon events.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Advanced scientific research in nuclear, particle, and astrophysics experiments, where precise timing and localization of photons is critical.
• Medical imaging systems such as positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), requiring fast and accurate photon detection.
• X-ray imaging devices and intensifiers for medical, industrial, or security applications.
• Night vision or low-light imaging systems for security, military, or astronomical observation.
• Development of large-area or high-resolution photon counting arrays for optical and quantum communication systems.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Simultaneous acquisition of precise spatial and temporal information for each detected photon, significantly enhancing data richness.
• High time resolution due to per-pixel digital time-stamping, allowing accurate discrimination of closely spaced photon events.
• Improved noise suppression through on-pixel electronic discriminators, resulting in higher data quality and signal fidelity.
• Scalable design: the technology supports integration into compact or large sensor arrays for various applications.
• Efficient data handling, including on-pixel data reduction and processing, facilitating faster and more manageable analysis workflows.

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Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a photon detector comprising a photocathode for the photon-induced release of measuring electrons. An at least one-dimensional electron detector pixel array provides spatial position information. An optical electron element is used to guide the measuring electrons to the array. Each pixel (19) has an electronic conversion device (20) for converting an analog measuring signal of the pixel (19) into a digital measuring signal, said device comprising a discriminator for background suppression. An electronic processing device (39) is used to process the digital measuring signal. The conversion device (20) of each pixel (19) has at least one clock generator (36) and at least one counter (29, 30) which is connected via signals to the clock generator (36) and the discriminator (27) for the generation of a digital time signal. The time signal is such that it is generated from the plurality of clock cycles between a reference moment and the moment (tmeasurement) of the arrival of an analog measuring signal which is not suppressed by the discriminator (27). The inventive photodetector thus enables the information relating to the moment the measuring signal was triggered on the respective signal to be derived from the measuring signal in addition to the position information.