APPLICATIONS OF TECHNOLOGY:

Can be used in a broad range of time-correlated imaging applications involving pixel matrices (as well as matrices of highly segmented detectors or micro-strip structures). Examples:

• Fluorescent analytic imaging
• Three-dimensional imaging
• Mammography
• Positron emission tomography (PET)
• Time-of-flight mass spectroscopy
• High frame-rate imaging
• Potential for use in consumer electronics such as cameras for HDTV

ADVANTAGES:

• Delay-based signal-filtering approach allows tail-free, symmetric shaping for the best counting rate performance
• Supports global trend toward putting a maximum of functions onto integrated circuits in handheld equipment
• Timing accuracy in sub-nanosecond range
• Very high hit rates operation
• Spatial resolution ten or more times better than the geometric size of pixel matrix pitch
• Speeds up imaging readout
• Supports an event-driven acquisition
• Allows data filtering that reduces transmission of redundant information

ABSTRACT:

In research at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Vitali Souchkov has invented an integrated-circuit system architecture for reading out multiparametric information from a matrix of pixels or other segmented detectors. The readout system offers functional improvement on conventional pixel systems and significantly outperforms current technology on the market.

Due to acquisition of space-time correlated data on the pixel matrix, very rapid adaptation of imaging data that targets certain object recognition is possible. Rare imaging events may also be selected and observed in the background of events outside the scope of interest. 

Time-stamping with sub-nanosecond resolution and event-driven acquisition allows pixel data filtering and compression instantly upon the acquisition of the detector signal, thereby  reducing the need to send out empty pixels or data that does not fit event selection criteria.  The system can be used in a broad range of time-correlated imaging applications involving any kind of pixel matrices, including those that sense the output charge distribution from a Micro Channel Plate (MCP) and other photo or radiation detectors.

STATUS:

• U.S. Patent #6,781,426. Available for licensing or collaborative research.

REFERENCE NUMBER: IB-1694