Abstract: A system for low dose x-ray imaging provides for dynamic generation of an x-ray beam with specific shape, and dynamic tracking of a detector with said beam. The detector is rotatable, and translatable along two orthogonal axes, and may mount with a circular detector tray, the tray rotating around a rotation axis. Specific detector shapes include an elongated rectangular matrix, for example with additional detector cells near the rotation center to provide an increased area of continuous detection. Dynamic low-dose x-ray tomosynthesis or limited-angle tomographic imaging is enabled via simultaneous x-ray tube and detector motions during examination, such as fluoroscopic examination of a human body. Data acquired at multiple projection angles is input to a 3D image reconstruction algorithm that provides a refreshed 3D data set during continuing examination. The system may thus also automatically track a point in three-dimensional space, for example continuously locating the tip of a catheter.

Abstract: A system for low dose x-ray imaging provides for dynamic generation of an x-ray beam with specific shape, and dynamic tracking of a detector with said beam. The detector is rotatable, and translatable along two orthogonal axes, and may mount with a circular detector tray, the tray rotating around a rotation axis. Specific detector shapes include an elongated rectangular matrix, for example with additional detector cells near the rotation center to provide an increased area of continuous detection. Dynamic low-dose x-ray tomosynthesis or limited-angle tomographic imaging is enabled via simultaneous x-ray tube and detector motions during examination, such as fluoroscopic examination of a human body. Data acquired at multiple projection angles is input to a 3D image reconstruction algorithm that provides a refreshed 3D data set during continuing examination. The system may thus also automatically track a point in three-dimensional space, for example continuously locating the tip of a catheter.

Abstract: A Compton scattered gamma-ray detector system. The system comprises a gamma-ray spectrometer and an annular array of individual scintillators. The scintillators are positioned so that they are arrayed around the gamma-ray spectrometer. The annular array of individual scintillators includes a first scintillator. A radiation shield is positioned around the first scintillator. A multi-channel analyzer is operatively connected to the gamma-ray spectrometer and the annular array of individual scintillators.

Abstract: The invention relates to production and precision patterning of work pieces, including manufacture of photomask for photolithography and direct writing on other substrates, such as semiconductor substrates. In particular, it relates to applying corrections to pattern data, such as corrections for distortions in the field of an SLM exposure stamp. It may be used to produce a device on a substrate. Alternatively, the present invention may be practiced as a device practicing disclosed methods or as an article of manufacture, particularly a memory, either volatile or non-volatile memory, including a program adapted to carry out the disclosed methods.

Abstract: A unit (11) with a length (L) is utilized in a device for indicating the position of an edge (7a) of a first area (7) which is irradiated by an x-ray radiation source (2) in relation to an edge (9a) of a second area, completely or partially coinciding with the first area, which second area is illuminated by a light source. The unit is provided with a first and second parts separated by a mark (12), which parts are intended to extend inside the second area and outside the second area respectively. The unit (11) comprises x-ray radiation-indicating elements (14, 22) that assume a first indication state in the presence of x-ray radiation (6) and a second indication state in the absence of x-ray radiation. The position indication can be determined by means of the said mark and indication states. The invention also relates to an arrangement and a method for the said position indication.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for providing nuclear medical imaging, in particular positron emission tomography, wherein a panel detector including scintillation blocks with a light guide is attached thereto. The scintillation block is arranged to cover a plurality of photosensors in an N by N configuration where there are outer photosensors which share light information from adjacent scintillation blocks and at least one center photosensor which does not share light information from adjacent scintillation blocks.

Abstract: A radiological imaging apparatus of the present invention comprises an image pickup device and a medical examinee holding device that is provided with a bed. The image pickup device includes a large number of radiation detectors and radiation detector support plates. A large number of radiation detectors are mounted around the circumference of a through-hole and arranged in the axial direction of the through-hole. The radiation detectors are arranged in three layers formed radially with respect to the center of the through-hole and mounted on the lateral surfaces of the radiation detector support plates. Since the radiation detectors are not only arranged in the axial direction and circumferential direction of the through-hole but also arrayed in the radial direction, it is possible to obtain accurate information about a ?-ray arrival position in the radial direction of the through-hole (the positional information about a radiation detector from which a ?-ray image pickup signal is output).

Abstract: A focal spot sensing device includes: a housing that resists x-ray beams; an opening disposed in a wall of the housing that allows an x-ray beam to enter the housing; and a sensor device disposed in the housing that interprets a position of the x-ray beam for calculating a position of a focal spot. An imaging system includes: an x-ray source that produces an x-ray beam and has a focal spot; a detector array that receives the x-ray beam and includes a focal spot sensing device, the focal spot sensing device includes: a housing that resists x-ray beams; an opening disposed in a wall of the housing that allows the x-ray beam to enter the housing; and a sensor device disposed in the housing that interprets a position of the x-ray beam for calculating a position of the focal spot. A method for sensing a focal spot, the method includes: receiving an x-ray beam into an opening of a focal spot sensing device; interpreting a position of the x-ray beam; and calculating or measuring a position of a focal spot.

Abstract: A device and method for measuring a depth of interaction of an ionizing event and improving resolution of a co-planar grid sensor (CPG) are provided. A time-of-occurrence is measured using a comparator to time the leading edge of the event pulse from the non-collecting or collecting grid. A difference signal between the grid signals obtained with a differential amplifier includes a pulse with a leading edge occurring at the time-of-detection, measured with another comparator. A timing difference between comparator outputs corresponds to the depth of interaction, calculated using a processor, which in turn weights the difference grid signal to improve spectral resolution of a CPG sensor. The device, which includes channels for grid inputs, may be integrated into an Application Specific Integrated Circuit. The combination of the device and sensor is included. An improved high-resolution CPG is provided, e.g., a gamma-ray Cadmium Zinc Telluride CPG sensor operating at room temperature.

Abstract: In a detector arrangement for a medical diagnosis apparatus as well as a medical imaging diagnostic method, radiation quanta striking a detector are detected and evaluated with spatial resolution. The use of collimators is thereby omitted, such that radiation quanta that strike at a non-perpendicular angle to the detector are also evaluated. For spatial resolution of the origin of the radiation quantum, the spatial distribution of sensor elements of the detector that emit a signal upon incidence of a radiation quantum is evaluated. A higher efficiency of the radiation evaluation is enabled and, particularly in nuclear medical diagnostic methods, the radiation exposure of the patient can be distinctly reduced.

Abstract: Described is a triggering arrangement including a power supply, a lighting arrangement and a switch. The lighting arrangement is coupled to the power supply. The switch is coupled to the lighting arrangement and the power supply. When the switch is in a first position, the lighting arrangement generates light to a photo-sensing portable device. The device is situated a predetermined distance from the arrangement. The device initiates a predetermined action in response to the light.

Abstract: A scintillator panel having a wavelength conversion member has some problems: lowered durability to be caused by an area not covered with a protective layer around a projection formed on the wavelength conversion member surface; lowered resolution response and CTF caused by an irregularity of the film thicknesses of wavelength conversion members and a variation in gaps between wavelength conversion members and sensor panels; and breakage of the sensor panel by projections when a radiation detector is formed by bonding the scintillator panel and sensor panel. At least one of these problems can be solved by a scintillator panel having projections on the wavelength conversion member surface whose sizes are reduced, and by a radiation detector having such a scintillator panel and a sensor panel bonded together.

Abstract: The invention relates to a detector for determining the position and/or energy of photons and/or charged particles. Said detector comprises a plurality of diodes made of a semi-conductor material, n-contacts (1) and p-contacts (4), the n-contacts being provided by dividing an n-layer into individual segments. Said segments of the n-layer are 20–500 ?m wide. Said detectors are produced by diffusing ions on the side of the semi-conductor material in order to produce an n-contact. A metallic layer is metallized thereon. Trenches are etched between the segments by means of lithography for the segmentation thereof. The inventive detector is high-powered and inter alia enables a high local resolution and high counting rates.

Abstract: The invention relates to a conductor crossover for a semiconductor detector, particularly for a drift detector for conducting X-ray spectroscopy. The conductor crossover comprises at least two doped semiconductor electrodes (2), which are placed inside a semiconductor substrate (1), at least one connecting conductor (M), which is guided over the semiconductor electrodes (2), and a first insulating layer (Ox). An intermediate electrode (L) is situated between the connecting conductor (M) and the first insulation layer (Ox). Said intermediate electrode overlaps the area of the semiconductor substrate (1) between the semiconductor electrodes (2) and is electrically insulated from the connecting conductor (M) by at least one additional insulation layer (I). The invention also relates to a drift detector equipped with a conductor crossover of this type and to a detector arrangement for conducting X-ray spectroscopy.

Abstract: A pixelated detector assembly comprising a stack of thin detector crystals, each detector crystal having a pair of planar surfaces bound by edges substantially thinner than the dimensions of the surfaces. The stack is disposed such that the radiation to be detected is incident on one set of edges of the stack of detector crystals. The dimension of the planar surfaces in the general direction of incidence of the radiation incidence is sufficient to ensure that substantially all of the high energy photons to be detected are absorbed within the depth of the detector assembly. Each of the detector crystals has a two-dimensional pixelated anode array formed on one of its planar surfaces. A cathode is formed on its opposite planar surface, preferably covering substantially all of the surface.

Abstract: A detector of radiation uses a composite material, and process manufactures the detector. The detector includes layers (6) of a semiconducting composite material including a host matrix made of a polymer and semiconducting-type guest particles dispersed through the host matrix, means (22–26) for creating an electric field in the layers, and a stack of sheets (4) of a first material emitting particles by interaction with the radiation, the layers alternating with the sheets, each of the layers being associated with one of the sheets, the stack having opposite faces, each containing the edges of the sheets and layers. The means for creating includes, for each layer, a group of parallel and conductive tracks (22) which extend from one face to the other, parallel to this layer, and which are in contact with it.

Abstract: A pixelated detector assembly comprising a stack of thin detector crystals, each detector crystal having a pair of planar surfaces bound by edges substantially thinner than the dimensions of the surfaces. The stack is disposed such that the radiation to be detected is incident on one set of edges of the stack of detector crystals. The dimension of the planar surfaces in the general direction of incidence of the radiation incidence is sufficient to ensure that substantially all of the high energy photons to be detected are absorbed within the depth of the detector assembly. Each of the detector crystals has a two-dimensional pixelated anode array formed on one of its planar surfaces. A cathode is formed on its opposite planar surface, preferably covering substantially all of the surface.

Abstract: A method for producing a high resolution detector array so as to provide very high packing fraction, i.e. the distance between scintillator elements is minimized so the detector efficiency will be higher than is currently achievable. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fabrication methodology is enhanced by handling scintillator bars rather than single crystals when gluing on an optical film as well as polishing the scintillator. Namely, a scintillator boule is cut into wide bars of a selected dimension, for example 30 mm, which are then acid etched or mechanically polished. A selected number, N, of these scintillator bars can then be glued together with sheets of optical film between each bar (coating the scintillator disks and optical film with an adhesive of a selected index of refraction). The glued bar block is then cut again into bars in a perpendicular direction, and these new scintillator-optical film bars are polished.

Abstract: A practical semiconductor radiation detector capable of collecting electrons rapidly with a large volume is disclosed. A multiple layers of grid electrodes around an anode formed on a semiconductor element limits the generation of the induced charge signal for the anode to the space in the neighborhood of the anode, while at the same time making it possible to collect the electrons rapidly. As a result of limiting the space for generating the induced charge by the grid electrodes, the energy resolution is improved even for a thick semiconductor element. Also, the capability of rapidly collecting the electrons due to the high field strength generated by the grid electrodes makes a sensitive volume of the whole semiconductor and thus achieves a high radiation detection efficiency.

Abstract: A scintillator panel 1 uses a glass substrate 5, having heat resistance, as a base member for forming a scintillator 10. Glass substrate 5 also functions as a radiation entry window. Also, a dielectric multilayer film mirror 6 is disposed as a light-reflecting film between the scintillator 10 and the glass substrate 5. Furthermore, a light-absorbing film 7 is disposed on the radiation entry surface of glass substrate 5 and this absorbs the light that has been emitted from scintillator 10 and has passed through the dielectric multilayer film mirror 6 and the glass substrate 5. Light components that are reflected by the radiation entry surface, etc., and return to the dielectric multilayer film mirror 7 and the scintillator 10 therefore do not occur and the optical output of the scintillator panel 1 is not subject to degrading effects.

Abstract: Gamma rays obtained from radioisotope administered to an examinee are detected by a gamma ray information-detecting unit so that a first tomographic image obtained therefrom is formed on a CRT. Further, a second tomographic image of the examinee detected by using an ultrasonic wave information-detecting unit juxtaposed with respect to the gamma ray information-detecting unit is formed while making the second tomographic image overlap on the first tomographic image. Thus, it is possible to obtain a tomographic image in which relative positional relationship of tissue is clear.

Abstract: A portable radioactive-material detection system capable of detecting radioactive sources moving at high speeds. The system has at least one radiation detector capable of detecting gamma-radiation and coupled to an MCA capable of collecting spectral data in very small time bins of less than about 150 msec. A computer processor is connected to the MCA for determining from the spectral data if a triggering event has occurred. Spectral data is stored on a data storage device, and a power source supplies power to the detection system. Various configurations of the detection system may be adaptably arranged for various radiation detection scenarios. In a preferred embodiment, the computer processor operates as a server which receives spectral data from other networked detection systems, and communicates the collected data to a central data reporting system.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatuses for constructing observed data from a Compton camera in order to provide a three-dimensional image of a radiopharmaceutical source distribution within a patient. No intermediate two-dimensional images are formed. Observed data may be analyzed by a processor in order to construct a three-dimensional image representing the source distribution. An idealized mathematical model may express the observed Compton camera data in terms of an integral over the source distribution. An exact analytic inversion is then found for this idealized model. The new analytic solutions arise from a generalization of the integral equation used to model the Compton camera. The kernel of the integral equation is modified by the introduction of an index p that describes the effect of source distance from the camera.

Abstract: An electronic cassette accommodating a sensor for converting radiation into an electric signal. A cable with a specific length is connected to a side surface of the electronic cassette. A connector that is connectable with a wireless communication unit or an external power source is provided at an end of the cable.

Abstract: A gamma camera comprising: a plurality of pixelated detectors wherein each pixelated detector provides a detector signal responsive to photons that are incident on it; a plurality of processing circuits that receive said detector signals and provide processed signals responsive to said detector signals; and at least one printed circuit board on which said processing circuits are mounted and having conductors thereon that carry said detector signals to said processing circuits; wherein said processing circuits are mounted on said printed circuit board at locations remote from said detectors; and wherein said plurality of pixelated detectors form a two-dimensional planar array.

Abstract: The present invention is a solid state detector that has internal gain and incorporates a special readout technique to determine the input position at which a detected signal originated without introducing any dead space to the active area of the device. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the detector is a silicon avalanche photodiode that provides a two dimensional position sensitive readout for each event that is detected.

Abstract: Electron focussing apparatus includes a cathode plate defining an impact surface on which particles impact, which surface has a finite probability of generating at least one electron for each impacting particle having predetermined characteristics. The apparatus also has an electron receiving element, and respective means for generating electrostatic and magnetic fields in a space extending from the impact surface to the electron receiving element. The means for generating the electrostatic and magnetic fields are configured whereby the E/B2 ratio adjacent the electron receiving element is smaller than adjacent the impact surface, whereby to decrease the radius of curvature of the electron trajectories adjacent the electron receiving element relative to adjacent the impact surface and to thereby focus the electron trajectories in at least one dimension.

Abstract: A normalization apparatus and method for a PET scanner with panel detectors for obtaining an estimate of a normalization array, for correction for count rate effects on the normalization array, and for measurement of the relation between the normalization array and the count rate. The method of the present invention is based on two quasi-independent radial and axial components, which are count rate dependent due to sensitivity changes across the detector blocks. A scatter source is disposed at the center of the FOV and a scatter-free source is disposed at the outer edge of the FOV. The method computes the normalization array through several steps which evaluate the geometric profile, the axial profile, and the correction factor. A count rate correction is introduced to extend the normalization array to any count rate.

Abstract: A radiation source position detection system is provided, wherein three radiation detectors are arranged at different positions. Based on radiations incident to each of the radiation detectors, curved surfaces where a radiation source exists are calculated. By solving equations of each of the curved surfaces simultaneously, the position of the radiation source is detected.

Abstract: An X-ray flat panel detector includes an X-ray photosensitive film which generates signal charges upon being exposed to incident X-rays, pixel electrodes which are arrayed in contact with the X-ray photosensitive film, a bias voltage application unit which applies a bias voltage to the X-ray photosensitive film so as to make the pixel electrodes collect holes or electrons, which serve as the signal charges generated by the X-ray photosensitive film and have a higher mobility, capacitors which are arranged in correspondence with the pixel electrodes and store the charges generated by the X-ray photosensitive film, switching thin-film transistors which are arranged in correspondence with the pixel electrodes and read the charges in the capacitors, scanning lines which supply a control signal to OPEN/CLOSE-control the switching thin-film transistors, and signal lines which are connected to the switching thin-film transistors to read the charges when the switching thin-film transistors are opened.

Abstract: The present invention is a solid state detector that has internal gain and incorporates a special readout technique to determine the input position at which a detected signal originated without introducing any dead space to the active area of the device. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the detector is a silicon avalanche photodiode that provides a two dimensional position sensitive readout for each event that is detected.

Abstract: Detector of radiation using a composite material and process for manufacturing this detector.

Abstract: The present invention is a solid state detector that has internal gain and incorporates a special readout technique to determine the input position at which a detected signal originated without introducing any dead space to the active area of the device. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the detector is a silicon avalanche photodiode that provides a two dimensional position sensitive readout for each event that is detected.

Abstract: A covert, gamma-ray “signature” is used as a “watermark” for property identification. This new watermarking technology is based on a unique steganographic or “hidden writing” digital signature, implemented in tiny quantities of gamma-ray-emitting radioisotopic material combinations, generally covertly emplaced on or within an object. This digital signature may be readily recovered at distant future times, by placing a sensitive, high energy-resolution gamma-ray detecting instrument reasonably precisely over the location of the watermark, which location may be known only to the object's owner; however, the signature is concealed from all ordinary detection means because its exceedingly low level of activity is obscured by the natural radiation background (including the gamma radiation naturally emanating from the object itself, from cosmic radiation and material surroundings, from human bodies, etc.).

Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting radiation including x-ray, gamma ray, and particle radiation for radiographic imaging, and nuclear medicine and x-ray mammography in particular, and material composition analysis are described. A detection system employs fixed or configurable arrays of one or more detector modules comprising detector arrays which may be electronically manipulated through a computer system. The detection system, by providing the ability for electronic manipulation, permits adaptive imaging. Detector array configurations include familiar geometries, including slit, slot, plane, open box, and ring configurations, and customized configurations, including wearable detector arrays, that are customized to the shape of the patient. Conventional, such as attenuating, rigid geometry, and unconventional collimators, such as x-ray optic, configurable, Compton scatter modules, can be selectively employed with detector modules and radiation sources.

Abstract: An X-ray detector (401, 501, 601) has a detecting element that comprises a semiconductor heterostructure where an undoped Germanium layer (402, 502) is enclosed between two oppositely doped Gallium Arsenide layers (403, 404, 503, 505).

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and a method for the feedback control of a grid scanner in ion therapy. An apparatus of that kind for the feedback control of a grid scanner has scanner magnet current supply devices for ion beam scanner magnets that deflect horizontally and vertically with respect to the middle of the ion beam, the supply devices being controlled by control and read-out modules for the scanner magnets. Furthermore, the apparatus has a location-sensitive detector for location measurement, which is controlled by means of a control and read-out module. A sequence control device controls the activation and read-out sequence among the devices of the apparatus, the apparatus also having in the sequence control device a circuit arrangement having a feedback loop between the control and read-out modules for the scanner magnets and the control and read-out module of the location-sensitive detector.

Abstract: A quantum well infrared photodetector focal plane array is disclosed wherein each detector structure of the array comprises two vertically stacked quantum well layers. Each of the quantum well layers are individually biased by separate bias voltages and the separate bias voltages are modulated to produce two or more measurements at different spectral bands. Each detector structure of the array can therefore perform measurements of incident infrared energy in at least four separate spectral bands. This technique of measuring incident infrared energy in four separate spectral bands can advantageously be applied to the discrimination of hot gas sources from background infrared clutter.

Abstract: A system has been disclosed for use in radiographic industrial non-destructive testing materials and personal monitoring, making use therefor, of tabular silver brom(oiod)ide emulsion grains having {111} major faces, an average equivalent circular diameter of at least 0.5 &mgr;m and an average thickness of less than 0.30 &mgr;m, having been chemically sensitized by the steps of adding at least a gold salt in order to provide the surface of said tabular grains with at least 6000 atoms of gold per &mgr;m2 of its grain surface and per (0.1 &mgr;m of thickness)2; and at least a sulfite salt in such an amount that the ratio of the number of gold atoms per &mgr;m2 and (concentration of said sulfite salt, expressed in mmole per mole of silver)2 is at least 200000.

Abstract: An optical structure includes a substrate having semiconductor material and a grating structure. The grating structure has the property of emitting at least one frequency band so that light having a frequency from that frequency band cannot propagate in the grating structure. The grating structure has a configuration of pores and a defective region. The pores are disposed outside the defective region in a periodic array, and the periodic array is disturbed in the defective region. A surface of the grating structure is provided with a conductive layer at least in the vicinity of the defective region. A method for producing the optical structure is also provided.

Abstract: A method for scaling a pixel location in a digital photolithography system by rotating a pixel panel is provided. The method determines the angle of rotation of the pixel panel relative to a subject and calculates the original location of the pixel to be scaled. The method calculates the desired location of the pixel and determines the angle through which the pixel panel should be rotated to align the pixel with the desired location in a first dimension. The scan rate of the pixel panel and the subject is altered to align the pixel with the desired location in a second dimension.

Abstract: A solid-state detector is accommodated within a case housing. The solid-state detector is provided with a layer containing amorphous selenium as a principal constituent and operates such that the solid-state detector records image information as an electrostatic latent image, and such that the solid-state detector generates electric currents in accordance with the electrostatic latent image when the solid-state detector is scanned with reading light. A heat discharging device discharges heat within the case housing to the exterior of the case housing, such that a temperature of the layer containing the amorphous selenium as the principal constituent is kept at a temperature lower than 40° C.

Abstract: A method for determining which of a plurality of detectors transmitted a signal, such as a signal related to neutron or gamma emissions, includes connecting each of the detectors to a single cable, such as an environmentally rugged cable. Signals are transmitted from each of the detectors over the single cable. The two ends of the cable are connected to two receivers. A different unique delay is introduced between receipt by the two receivers of a signal over the cable for each of the detectors. The receivers, which have a preamplifier, an amplifier and a discriminator, receive the signals from the two ends of the cable. A timing analyzer, such as a time-to-amplitude converter, measures a delay between one signal from one end and the other signal from the other end of the cable. A processor employs the amplitude of the signal output by the timing analyzer.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for inspecting a feature on a wafer surface are provided. In one aspect a method of inspecting a feature on a film surface is provided that includes illuminating the feature with laser radiation and detecting radiation scattered from the feature with a plurality of detectors. Each of the plurality of detectors has a known position. A position of the feature observed by each of the plurality detectors is computed based upon the radiation scattered from the feature. An average position of the positions observed by each of the plurality of detectors is computed. A first value for each of the plurality of detectors is computed that is the scalar product of the known position of a given detector with the difference of the position of the feature observed by that given detector and the average of the positions observed by each of the plurality of detectors.

Abstract: The present invention is a solid state detector that has internal gain and incorporates a special readout technique to determine the input position at which a detected signal originated without introducing any dead space to the active area of the device. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the detector is a silicon avalanche photodiode that provides a two dimensional position sensitive readout for each event that is detected.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting the presence of at least two predetermined known materials in a test sample are disclosed. The apparatus includes a sample addition station for adding a sample to a test column in the apparatus, a reagent station, a washing station, a detection station for detecting signals on the snares of the test column due to the presence of the predetermined known materials in the sample, and conveying means for conveying the test column from the sample addition station to the reagent station, washing station, and detection station. The test sample is introduced into a test column which has at least two snares for capturing the predetermined known materials, and the snares are separate spatially one from another. Each snare has a capture material specific to the associated predetermined known material. The detection station has a plurality of detectors for detecting signals on the snares of the test column due to the presence of the predetermined known materials in the sample.

Abstract: A device for determining the photon energy E1 and direction cone angle of incident gamma ray includes a radiation detector for receiving an incident gamma ray having an unknown photon energy E1 and an unknown direction and for scattering the gamma ray with two Compton scattering interactions and a subsequent scattering or absorption interaction. The detector provides three outputs, each output corresponding to one of the Compton scattering and the subsequent scattering or absorption interactions, to a processor, which is programmed to calculate the photon energy E1 and direction cone angle of the incident gamma ray based on these outputs.

Abstract: An imaging array of photodiodes on a chip cut from a semiconductor wafer includes a guard diode at each cut edge to reduce leakage current from the cut edges when the imaging array is in use. The photodiodes and guard diode may be fabricated from the same materials during the same process step. Electrical contacts coupled to the imaging array provide a mechanism for applying a reverse electrical bias to the photodiodes and guard region with respect to the wafer.

Abstract: An image sensing apparatus is constructed in the optimum structure for provision of a wide photoreceptive area and has a plurality of solid state image sensing devices, each having a photoreceptive area comprising a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements, and a plurality of optical fiber plates for guiding light to the respective solid state image sensing devices, wherein the optical fiber plates are of a configuration for guiding light obliquely relative to a direction normal to an incidence plane of light of the optical fiber plates and toward the periphery of the solid state image sensing devices to which the optical fiber plates guide the light.

Abstract: A semiconductor energy detector having a region for detection and charge accumulation/transfer where a two-dimensional pixel array is formed on a surface of a semiconductor substrate on which energy rays become incident, is characterized in that the region for detection and charge accumulation/transfer comprises a plurality of transfer electrodes formed in each pixel, and an excess charge removing means arranged in correspondence with one of the transfer electrodes in each pixel.