Abstract

The invention relates to a radiation detection structure (SPD) formed by a stack of layers comprising: an absorption layer (CA) made of a perovskite structure material, an upper electrode (EL1), and a lower electrode (EL2). The absorption layer (CA) is arranged between the lower electrode and the upper electrode. The stack further comprises a blocking layer (CB), made of a dielectric material, confined between: the absorption layer (CA) and an electrode chosen from the upper electrode (EL1) or the lower electrode (EL2). The blocking layer (CB) comprises at least one discontinuity (11, V1) filled with the perovskite structure material or with a third conductive material so as to form a direct electrical contact zone (ZCD) between the absorption layer (CA) and the electrode (EL1, EL2).

IPC Classes  ?

• H10F 39/12 - Image sensors
• H10F 39/00 - Integrated devices, or assemblies of multiple devices, comprising at least one element covered by group , e.g. radiation detectors comprising photodiode arrays

Abstract

A matrix photosensitive detector organized in pixels and to a method for producing the detector, the detector comprising: a flat substrate having multiple interconnect levels connected to one another by through vias, a photodetector grouping together the pixels of the photosensitive detector, arranged on a first external face of the flat substrate and configured to bring about conversion of radiation to which the detector is sensitive into an electrical signal by each of the pixels, semiconductor microcircuits configured to drive and read out each of the pixels, the microcircuits being arranged facing each of the pixels or between adjacent pixels perpendicular to the substrate, each microcircuit being carried on a microsubstrate independent from the flat substrate of the photosensitive detector, the microcircuits being connected individually to the flat substrate at one of its interconnect levels.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 27/146 - Imager structures

Abstract

An assembly for detecting scattered rays includes an X-ray filtering device configured to spatially filter the X-rays as a function of their direction of emission; and an imager assembled facing the filtering device so as to receive the X-rays filtered by the filtering device, the imager being configured to produce a radiographic image from the X-rays filtered by the filtering device; the filtering device comprising several plates, the plates comprising a material capable of absorbing the X-rays, the plates being oriented so as to move away from a centre of the filtering device in the direction going from the imager to the filtering device.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01T 1/08 - Photographic dosimeters

Abstract

The invention relates to an optoelectronic device comprising: - at least one pixel comprising • an absorption layer made of a first material and arranged on a first face of a first substrate, the absorption layer being intended to convert an incident ray into electric charges; • a lower electrode for collecting the electric charges; • and an upper electrode arranged on the absorption layer; - a read-out circuit arranged on a second substrate and comprising at least one read-out electrode dedicated to the pixel. The first substrate comprises at least one via starting from a second face of the first substrate opposite the first face, said via being electrically connected to the lower electrode and also to at least one hybridization connector for electrically and mechanically coupling the pixel to the read-out electrode dedicated to said pixel.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 27/146 - Imager structures

Abstract

A readout method for reading a sensor includes a matrix of pixels sensitive to a physical phenomenon and delivering an electrical signal the level of which depends on the intensity of the physical phenomenon, the pixels being organized into rows and being connected, via conductors, to readout circuits of the sensor, the readout circuits each comprising an analogue-to-digital converter receiving the electrical signal and delivering digital information depending on the electrical signal. The method comprises the following phases for the readout of each pixel: the matrix of pixels acquiring electric charges; and reading the matrix by transferring the charges acquired during the acquisition phase to the readout circuits, wherein, during the readout phase, multiple successive analogue-to-digital conversions of the acquired charges are carried out in parallel with one and the same acquisition phase. A readout device comprising the readout circuits of the sensor and configured to implement the readout method.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01T 1/24 - Measuring radiation intensity with semiconductor detectors

Abstract

A solid-state digital detector for detecting incident radiation, the detector includes a photosensitive sensor and a light generator, the photosensitive sensor comprising photosensitive elements organized in a matrix, the light generator being intended to optically erase the photosensitive elements, wherein the light generator comprises: a light guide comprising a front face facing the front of the detector, a rear face opposite the front face and at least one side face extending between the front face and the rear face, and at least one light source arranged at the lateral periphery of the light guide, and wherein the light generator is configured such that the at least one light source injects light through at least one of the faces of the light guide, the light guide being configured to distribute light from the at least one light source over the entire matrix of photosensitive elements.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01T 1/20 - Measuring radiation intensity with scintillation detectors

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for depositing a layer of an inorganic or hybrid organic/inorganic material on a substrate for producing an active layer in an electronic, optoelectronic and/or optical device, said method involving the following steps in sequence: - a step of preparing a target, the step of preparing the target involving the following sub-steps in sequence: - a sub-step of placing a powder of the inorganic or hybrid organic/inorganic material on a support and delimited in/by a frame; and - a sub-step of smoothing the powder, making it possible to obtain a layer of powder having a substantially uniform thickness; - a step of positioning the target in a sublimation furnace, an upper face of the target being opposite the substrate to be covered; and - a step of heating the target via the support to deposit the layer of inorganic or hybrid organic/inorganic material on the substrate by sublimation.

IPC Classes  ?

• C23C 14/06 - Coating by vacuum evaporation, by sputtering or by ion implantation of the coating forming material characterised by the coating material
• C23C 14/24 - Vacuum evaporation
• C30B 23/06 - Heating of the deposition chamber, the substrate, or the materials to be evaporated
• C30B 29/12 - Halides

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for depositing a layer of an organic/inorganic hybrid or inorganic material on a substrate for manufacturing an electronic, optoelectronic and/or optical device, said method comprising: a step of preparing a target; a step for positioning the target on a susceptor in a sublimation furnace, said target being positioned in the furnace facing the substrate to be covered; and a step of heating the target via the susceptor to deposit the layer of organic/inorganic hybrid or inorganic material on the substrate by sublimation; characterized in that, since the target comprises a plurality of sub-targets, the step of preparing the target makes it possible to obtain sub-targets having a variable thickness and/or the step of preparing the target makes it possible to obtain overlapping sub-targets.

IPC Classes  ?

• C23C 14/06 - Coating by vacuum evaporation, by sputtering or by ion implantation of the coating forming material characterised by the coating material
• C23C 14/24 - Vacuum evaporation
• C30B 23/06 - Heating of the deposition chamber, the substrate, or the materials to be evaporated
• C30B 29/12 - Halides

Abstract

A radiology assembly includes an x-ray tube for generating a beam of x-rays that is centered around a main emission direction, a planar sensor extending in a plane defined by a first direction and by a second direction, which directions are substantially perpendicular to the main x-ray emission direction, the sensor being intended to receive the x-rays, comprising a first divided emitter that is divided into two electromagnetic-field-emitting portions; a second divided emitter that is divided into two electromagnetic-field-emitting portions; a so-called planar electromagnetic-field emitter, electromagnetic-field sensors that are securely fastened to the planar sensor, a processing means intended to determine an angle of alignment between the main emission direction and a normal of the planar sensor, to determine a first centering error and a second centering error, a correcting means for correcting the angle of alignment by applying a first corrective movement to the x-ray tube and first and second centering errors by applying the first corrective movement and/or a second corrective movement to the x-ray tube.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 6/00 - Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosisApparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis combined with radiation therapy equipment

Abstract

The invention relates to a light-sensitive matrix-array detector (20) organized into pixels (30) and to a process for producing the detector, the detector comprising: a flat substrate (22) having a plurality of interconnect levels connected to one another by through-vias; a photodetector (24) grouping the pixels (30) of the light-sensitive detector, said photodetector being placed on a first external face of the flat substrate (22) and being configured to convert radiation to which the detector is sensitive into an electrical signal via each of the pixels (30); semiconductor microcircuits (26) configured to drive and read out each of the pixels, the microcircuits (26) being placed facing each of the pixels (30) or between pixels adjacent perpendicular to the substrate (22), each microcircuit (26) being borne by a micro-substrate (27) independent of the flat substrate (22) of the light-sensitive detector, the microcircuits (26) being individually connected to one of the interconnect levels of the flat substrate (22).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 27/146 - Imager structures

Abstract

A digital detector includes a planar sensor and a first monolithic substrate and a second monolithic substrate, the planar sensor being positioned on the first monolithic substrate, the detector comprising, on the first monolithic substrate: a set of pixels organized into a matrix array along rows and down columns and configured so as to generate charges on the basis of radiation; b. column conductors, each connecting the pixels of one same column and intended to carry the charges generated by the pixels; on the second monolithic substrate: c. for each of the column conductors, a charge preamplifier connected to the column conductor, forming a preamplified column conductor that is intended to integrate the charges carried by said column conductor; d. at least one analogue-to-digital converter connected in series to the preamplified column conductors, intended to convert the integrated charges at the output of the charge preamplifiers into a digital voltage; e. a serializer block connected to the at least one analogue-to-digital converter, intended to generate an output voltage.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/32 - Transforming X-rays

Abstract

A three-dimensional part intended to cooperate with: a single-piece base comprising a first main face, a second main face, the base being delimited by four lateral faces, the base being able to support a digital detector on the first main face and an electronic circuit board, a mechanical protection housing, the base, the digital detector and the electronic circuit board being intended to be arranged in the mechanical protection housing, the housing comprising four lateral faces, a top face and a bottom face; the three-dimensional part being comprising a bottom part linked to the base and at least partially enclosing a lateral face of the base; a top part extending from the first main face of the base to the top face of the housing.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01T 1/16 - Measuring radiation intensity
• G01T 7/00 - Details of radiation-measuring instruments
• B33Y 80/00 - Products made by additive manufacturing
• A61B 6/00 - Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosisApparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis combined with radiation therapy equipment

Abstract

A digital detector includes a conversion block intended to convert incident radiation into electric charge; an electronic card that converts the electric charge into a digital image, the conversion block comprising N conversion stages superposed on one another, N being an integer between 2 and M, each of the N conversion stages comprising: a monolithic substrate; a first converter assembly in the form of a polygonal matrix array, M being the number of sides of the polygonal matrix array, M preferably being equal to 4, and configured so as to generate the electric charge on the basis of the incident radiation; an addressing and driving module for addressing and driving the matrix array, the addressing and driving module being arranged on the monolithic substrate along one side of the polygonal matrix array; each of the N conversion stages being oriented by at least 1/M of a turn with respect to the other N−1 conversion stages of the conversion block, and with an orientation distinct from the other N−1 conversion stages of the conversion block.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01T 1/20 - Measuring radiation intensity with scintillation detectors
• A61B 6/42 - Arrangements for detecting radiation specially adapted for radiation diagnosis
• H01L 27/146 - Imager structures
• H04N 5/32 - Transforming X-rays

Abstract

A method for producing a solid-state digital detector of incident radiation includes a photosensitive sensor and a radiation converter, comprising a. a step of growing on a first substrate a scintillating substance from the first substrate, capable of converting the incident radiation into a second radiation to which the sensor is sensitive, the scintillating substance comprising an upstream front face in the direction of propagation of the incident radiation, through which the incident radiation passes, and a downstream front face in the direction of propagation of the incident radiation, opposite the upstream front face; b. a step of holding the scintillator at the downstream front face of the scintillating substance; c. a step of separating the first substrate from the scintillator.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01T 1/20 - Measuring radiation intensity with scintillation detectors

Abstract

A portable radiological cassette includes a scintillator, a photosensitive slab, the scintillator and the photosensitive slab forming a panel, the panel having a front face intended to receive the incident x-ray and a rear face opposite the front face, an electronic circuit board, a mechanical protection housing, wherein the panel and the electronic circuit board are disposed, comprising a top face and a bottom face; wherein the top face of the mechanical protection housing comprises: a first layer of rigid material, a second layer of rigid material, the second layer of rigid material being in contact with the front face of the panel, a layer of cellular material disposed between the first and the second layers of rigid material.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01T 1/20 - Measuring radiation intensity with scintillation detectors

Abstract

A method for the real-time control of exposure to an X-ray dose emitted by a generator tube for generating an X-ray beam and received by a detector includes a flat panel detector, comprising a set of pixels organized into a matrix along rows and columns and configured so as to generate signals on the basis of the X-ray dose impinging on the detector, the generator tube comprising a control unit for controlling the generator tube that is configured so as to control an emitted X-ray dose, the control method comprising the following steps: exposing the flat panel detector to an X-ray dose emitted by the generator tube for generating an X-ray beam; repeatedly reading out at least one of the rows of pixels while the flat panel detector is exposed to the X-ray dose; determining a payload signal and a stray signal based on the signals from the readout of the at least one of the rows; transmitting the payload signal to the control unit for controlling the generator tube.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 6/00 - Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosisApparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis combined with radiation therapy equipment
• G01T 1/17 - Circuit arrangements not adapted to a particular type of detector

Abstract

The invention relates to a radiology assembly (10) comprising: - a tube (11) for generating a beam of x-rays (12) that is centred around a main emission direction (13), - a planar sensor (14) extending in a plane defined by a first direction (D1) and by a second direction (D2), which directions are substantially perpendicular to the main x-ray emission direction (13), the sensor being intended to receive the x-rays (12), the tube being characterised in that it comprises: - a first divided emitter (15) that is divided into two electromagnetic field-emitting portions; - a second divided emitter (16) that is divided into two electromagnetic field-emitting portions; - a planar electromagnetic field emitter (24), - electromagnetic field sensors (29, 30, 31, 32) that are securely fastened to the planar sensor (14), - a processing means (17) that is intended to determine an angle of alignment between the main emission direction (13) and a normal (N1) of the planar sensor (14) and to determine first and second centering errors, and - a means (171) for correcting the angle of alignment by applying a first corrective movement to the generating tube (11) and first and second centering errors by applying the first corrective movement and/or a second corrective movement to the generating tube (11).

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 6/00 - Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosisApparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis combined with radiation therapy equipment

Abstract

A matrix-array detector and to a method for implementing the detector are provided. The detector includes an array of pixels that are sensitive to a physical effect and arranged in a matrix along rows and down columns, each pixel generating a signal according to the physical effect; row conductors, each allowing the pixels of one row to be driven; a first group of driver modules each delivering selection signals to one row conductor of a first group of row conductors; a second group of driver modules each delivering selection signals to one row conductor of a first group of row conductors; the first and second groups of row conductors being interlaced.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 27/146 - Imager structures
• H04N 5/376 - Addressing circuits

Abstract

A method for producing an imager includes the following steps: a. attaching an imaging sensor to a first substrate; b. cutting out the first substrate a predefined distance around the attached imaging sensor; c. attaching a driver circuit board for driving the imaging sensor to the cut-out first substrate, close to the attached imaging sensor; d. connecting the driver circuit board for driving the imaging sensor to the attached imaging sensor in order to obtain a first tile; e. repeating the attaching, cutting-out, attaching, and connecting steps in order to obtain a second tile; f. butting together the obtained first tile and second tile by placing the cut-out first substrates in edge-to-edge contact; g. attaching the butted-together tiles to a main substrate; h. connecting the driver circuit boards of the imaging sensors of the butted-together first tile and second tile to a motherboard of the imager.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 27/146 - Imager structures
• G01T 1/24 - Measuring radiation intensity with semiconductor detectors

Abstract

2, is connected to the multiplexer of rank n=q modulo K. Downstream of the multiplexers, the detector comprises a network of switches allowing signals present at the outputs of the multiplexers to be mixed.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 25/46 - Extracting pixel data from image sensors by controlling scanning circuits, e.g. by modifying the number of pixels sampled or to be sampled by combining or binning pixels
• H04N 25/75 - Circuitry for providing, modifying or processing image signals from the pixel array
• H04N 25/78 - Readout circuits for addressed sensors, e.g. output amplifiers or A/D converters

Abstract

A photosensitive sensor includes multiple elementary sensors butted together, each elementary sensor comprising a pixel matrix organized in rows, the pixels of each row being connected to conductors of multiple types, column conductors of which are connected to read circuits of the sensor. The sensor moreover comprises, connected to each of the column conductors, a group of components that is separate from the conductor under consideration, the group of components forming a matching impedance of the conductor under consideration. The impedances in each elementary sensor have the same value and the impedances for different elementary sensors have different impedance values so as to balance the link impedances between the various read circuits and the corresponding column conductors for the various elementary sensors.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/374 - Addressed sensors, e.g. MOS or CMOS sensors
• H04N 5/341 - Extracting pixel data from an image sensor by controlling scanning circuits, e.g. by modifying the number of pixels having been sampled or to be sampled

Goods & Services

Electronic imaging devices; video imaging systems; radiological apparatus for industrial use; X-ray photographs, other than for medical purposes; detectors; digital image processing software; optical sensors. Medical imaging apparatus; magnetic resonance imaging apparatus for medical use; medical apparatus for diagnostic imaging; radiological apparatus for medical use; radiology screens for medical use; X-ray apparatus for medical use; magnetic resonance tomography [MRI] apparatus; magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners. Scientific and industrial research in the field of medical radiology; research and development in the field of medical imaging.

Goods & Services

(1) Electronic imaging devices, namely, X-ray solid state flat-panel detectors, not for medical purposes; video imaging systems, namely, X-ray solid state flat-panel detectors, not for medical purposes; industrial X-ray apparatus; X-ray photographs for industrial inspections; detectors, namely, X-ray solid state flat-panel detectors, not for medical purposes; digital image processing software; optical sensors. (2) Medical imaging apparatus, namely, X-ray apparatus for medical purposes; magnetic resonance imaging apparatus for medical use; medical apparatus for diagnostic imaging, namely, X-ray solid state flat-panel detectors for medical purposes; radiological equipment for medical use; radiology screens for medical use; Xray apparatus for medical use; magnetic resonance tomography [MRI] apparatus; magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners. (1) Scientific and industrial research in the field of medical radiology; research and development in the field of medical imaging.

Goods & Services

Electronic imaging devices, namely, X-ray solid state flat-panel detectors, not for medical purposes; video imaging systems, namely, X-ray solid state flat-panel detectors, not for medical purposes; radiological apparatus for industrial use, namely, X-ray apparatus not for medical purposes; X-ray photographs, other than for medical purposes; detectors, namely, X-ray solid state flat-panel detectors, not for medical purposes; downloadable and recorded digital image processing software; optical sensors Medical imaging apparatus, namely, X-ray apparatus for medical purposes; magnetic resonance imaging apparatus for medical use; medical apparatus for diagnostic imaging, namely, electromagnetic medical diagnostic imaging apparatus; radiological apparatus for medical use; radiology screens for medical use, namely, screens for X-ray solid state flat-panel detectors for medical purposes; X-ray apparatus for medical use; magnetic resonance tomography (MRT) apparatus for medical use; magnetic resonance imaging apparatus for medical purposes, namely, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners Scientific and industrial research in the field of medical radiology; research and development in the field of medical imaging

Abstract

A method for estimating parameters of an object which is to be estimated in a digital image which represents real imaged content, comprising at least: a) an initial step comprising the production of a dictionary of content components and the production of a dictionary of object components, the content components and the object components having the same dimensions as the digital image; b) a step of establishing, at the same time, the magnitude of each of the content components of the dictionary of content components and of the object components of the dictionary of object components present in the digital image; c) a step of establishing, from the magnitude of each of the object components, the value of at least one parameter which characterizes the object to be estimated.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
• G06T 7/70 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras
• G06K 9/62 - Methods or arrangements for recognition using electronic means
• G06T 7/60 - Analysis of geometric attributes

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for producing a solid-state digital detector of incident radiation, comprising a photosensitive sensor and a radiation converter (13), characterized in that it comprises: a. a step (100) of growing a scintillating substance (14) on a first substrate (12), said scintillating substance extending from the first substrate (12) and being suitable for transforming the incident radiation into a second radiation to which the sensor (11) is sensitive, the scintillating substance (14) comprising an end face (15) that is upstream in the direction of propagation of the incident radiation, traversed by the incident radiation, and an end face (16) that is downstream in the direction of propogation of the incident radiation, opposite the upstream end face (15); b. a step (101) of holding the scintillator (13) at the downstream end face (16) of the scintillating substance (14); c. a step (102) of separating the first substrate (12) from the scintillator (13).

IPC Classes  ?

• G01T 1/20 - Measuring radiation intensity with scintillation detectors

Abstract

The invention relates to a matrix detector comprising a set of pixels (P) that are sensitive to a physical phenomenon and organized in a matrix along at least one line and columns, each pixel (P) generating a signal that is a function of the physical phenomenon, Q column conductors (Col), each connecting the one or more pixels of a same column and intended to transport the signals generated by the pixels (P). According to the invention, the detector further comprises N multiplexers (A, B, C, D) configured to operate simultaneously, each multiplexer receiving the signals of K column conductors, K being greater than or equal to 2, Q being at least equal to K2. The columns (Col) and associated conductors are ordered according to their physical distribution, q representing a current column. The N multiplexers (A, B, C, D) are ordered from 1 to Q/K, n representing the current multiplexer row. The column of row q with q being between 1 and K2 is connected to the multiplexer of row n = q modulo K. Downstream from the multiplexers (A, B, C, D), the detector comprises a network of switches (38) allowing signals present on the outputs (SA, SB, SC, SD) of the multiplexers (A, B, C, D) to be mixed.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/347 - Extracting pixel data from an image sensor by controlling scanning circuits, e.g. by modifying the number of pixels having been sampled or to be sampled by combining or binning pixels in SSIS
• H04N 5/378 - Readout circuits, e.g. correlated double sampling [CDS] circuits, output amplifiers or A/D converters

Abstract

A matrix-array detector includes an array of pixels that are sensitive to a physical effect and arranged in a matrix along rows and down columns, each pixel generating a signal according to the physical effect; row conductors, each allowing the pixels of one row to be driven; driver modules delivering selection signals to the row conductors, the driver modules being configured to deliver signals according to either of two levels, one being a high level allowing one of the rows of pixels to be selected and the other being a low level not allowing it to be selected. The detector further comprises impedance modules that are connected to each of the row conductors and configured to decrease the impedance of each row conductor and to keep the impedance of each row conductor low in a phase of reading the array of pixels as long as the corresponding selection signal is at the low level, the impedance modules being separate from the driver modules.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/3745 - Addressed sensors, e.g. MOS or CMOS sensors having additional components embedded within a pixel or connected to a group of pixels within a sensor matrix, e.g. memories, A/D converters, pixel amplifiers, shared circuits or shared components
• H01L 27/146 - Imager structures
• H04N 5/376 - Addressing circuits
• H04N 5/345 - Extracting pixel data from an image sensor by controlling scanning circuits, e.g. by modifying the number of pixels having been sampled or to be sampled by partially reading an SSIS array

Abstract

A method for producing a stack, includes the following steps: forming a first layer able to conduct electricity, forming a layer of interest on the first layer, the layer of interest comprising at least one free volume, forming at least one repairing element, each repairing element at least partially filling a free volume, called the free volume of interest, the repairing element comprising at least one insulating layer and leaving free an upper surface of the layer of interest opposite the first layer located outside of the at least one free volume, forming a second layer, able to conduct electricity, on the layer of interest, the second layer covering the repairing element and the free surface, the step of forming the repairing element comprising the following steps: forming, on the layer of interest, a layer that extends at least partially into the free volume of interest, covering at least one portion of the buffer layer located in the volume of interest with a filling layer, the buffer layer and the filling layer being made from different materials.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 51/52 - Solid state devices using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of such devices, or of parts thereof specially adapted for light emission, e.g. organic light emitting diodes (OLED) or polymer light emitting devices (PLED) - Details of devices
• H01L 51/56 - Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of such devices or of parts thereof
• H01L 51/44 - Solid state devices using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of such devices, or of parts thereof specially adapted either for the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy or for the control of electrical energy by such radiation - Details of devices

Abstract

Method for estimating parameters of an object which is to be estimated in a digital image which represents real imaged content, comprising at least: a) an initial step comprising the production of a dictionary of content components and the production of a dictionary of object components, the content components and the object components having the same dimensions as the digital image; b) a step of establishing, at the same time, the magnitude of each of the content components of the dictionary of content components and of the object components of the dictionary of object components present in the digital image; c) a step of establishing, from the magnitude of each of the object components, the value of at least one parameter which characterises the object to be estimated.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06K 9/62 - Methods or arrangements for recognition using electronic means
• G06T 5/00 - Image enhancement or restoration

Abstract

A matrix-array optoelectronic device includes a substrate on which a matrix array of what are called bottom electrodes is deposited; an active structure, which is preferably continuous and organic, arranged above the matrix-array of bottom electrodes, the structure being suitable for detecting light; and at least one what is called top electrode lying above the active structure, the top electrode being transparent to the light emitted or detected by the active structure; and at least one conductive element that is borne by the substrate without interposition of the active structure and that is connected to the top electrode by at least one vertical interconnection, the conductive element having an electrical conductivity greater than that of the top electrode. The device may also comprise a layer made of scintillator material, the layer being fastened to the top electrode, so as to form an x-ray imager.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 27/30 - Devices consisting of a plurality of semiconductor or other solid-state components formed in or on a common substrate including components using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part with components specially adapted for either the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy or for the control of electrical energy by such radiation
• H01L 51/44 - Solid state devices using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of such devices, or of parts thereof specially adapted either for the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy or for the control of electrical energy by such radiation - Details of devices
• H01L 27/146 - Imager structures

Abstract

8Ω.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 51/42 - Solid state devices using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of such devices, or of parts thereof specially adapted either for the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy or for the control of electrical energy by such radiation
• H01L 27/30 - Devices consisting of a plurality of semiconductor or other solid-state components formed in or on a common substrate including components using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part with components specially adapted for either the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy or for the control of electrical energy by such radiation
• H01L 51/00 - Solid state devices using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of such devices, or of parts thereof
• B82Y 30/00 - Nanotechnology for materials or surface science, e.g. nanocomposites

Abstract

A portable radiological cassette comprises a housing, and a digital detector of incident ionizing radiation, taking the form of a flat panel, the detector being positioned in the housing and comprising a memory space, and being intended to generate a digital image of a patient exposed to the ionizing radiation and with whom an identification code is associated, the digital image being stored in the memory space. The cassette comprises a device for selecting the identification code of the patient, which is intended to write the identification code of the patient in the memory space. The invention also relates to a method for identifying a patient.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 6/00 - Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosisApparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis combined with radiation therapy equipment
• G16H 10/65 - ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of patient-related medical or healthcare data for patient-specific data, e.g. for electronic patient records stored on portable record carriers, e.g. on smartcards, RFID tags or CD
• G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light

Abstract

Method for producing a stack, comprising the following steps: forming a first layer (2) that is able to conduct electricity; forming a layer of interest (3) on the first layer (2), said layer of interest (3) comprising at least one free volume; forming at least one repairing element (7), each repairing element at least partially filling a free volume, called the free volume of interest, the repairing element (7) comprising at least one insulating layer and leaving free an upper surface (31) of the layer of interest (3) opposite the first layer (2) located beyond said at least one free volume; forming a second layer (20), that is able to conduct electricity, on the layer of interest (3), the second layer (20) covering the repairing element (7) and the free surface (31), the step of forming the repairing element (7) comprising the following steps: forming, on the layer of interest (3), a layer (4) that at least partially extends into the free volume of interest; covering at least some of the buffer layer (4) located in the volume of interest with a filling layer (5), said buffer layer (4) and the filling layer (5) being made of different materials.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 51/44 - Solid state devices using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of such devices, or of parts thereof specially adapted either for the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy or for the control of electrical energy by such radiation - Details of devices
• H01L 51/52 - Solid state devices using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of such devices, or of parts thereof specially adapted for light emission, e.g. organic light emitting diodes (OLED) or polymer light emitting devices (PLED) - Details of devices

Abstract

A process for producing a stack of a first electrode/active layer/second electrode, which stack is intended for an electronic device, in particular an organic photodetector or an organic solar cell, the process comprises the following steps: (a) depositing a first conductor layer on the front side of a substrate, in order to form the first electrode; and (b) depositing an active layer taking the form of a thin organic semiconductor layer, this layer including discontinuous zones; wherein this process further comprises the following steps: (d) depositing a resist layer on that side of the stack which is opposite the substrate, which is at least partially transparent; (e) exposing the resist layer via the back side of the substrate; (f) developing the resist layer; and (g) depositing a second conductor layer in order to form the conductive second electrode.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 51/44 - Solid state devices using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of such devices, or of parts thereof specially adapted either for the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy or for the control of electrical energy by such radiation - Details of devices
• H01L 51/50 - Solid state devices using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of such devices, or of parts thereof specially adapted for light emission, e.g. organic light emitting diodes (OLED) or polymer light emitting devices (PLED)
• H01L 31/0224 - Electrodes
• H01L 51/52 - Solid state devices using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of such devices, or of parts thereof specially adapted for light emission, e.g. organic light emitting diodes (OLED) or polymer light emitting devices (PLED) - Details of devices
• H01L 51/56 - Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of such devices or of parts thereof

Abstract

A sigma-delta converter comprises a sigma-delta modulator suitable for supplying a series of binary samples (BS(k)) representative of an analogue input signal (Vin) to be digitized, in which at least one analogue signal internal to the modulator is weighted by a coefficient that is variable according to a first predetermined law (f).

IPC Classes  ?

• H03M 3/00 - Conversion of analogue values to or from differential modulation

Abstract

The invention relates to an optoelectronic array device comprising a substrate (S) on which an array (MEI) of electrodes (EI), referred to as lower electrodes, is deposited; an active structure (STA), preferably continuous and organic, arranged on top of said array of lower electrodes, capable of detecting a light ray; and at least one so-called upper electrode (ES) extending above the active structure, said upper electrode being transparent to light rays emitted or detected by the active structure; as well as at least one conductor element (C2) supported by the substrate without interposing of said active structure and linking to said upper electrode via at least one vertical interconnection (IV), said conductor element having an electrical conductivity greater than that of said upper electrode. The device may also comprise a layer of scintillator material (SC) attached to said upper electrode in such a way as to constitute an X-ray imager.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 27/30 - Devices consisting of a plurality of semiconductor or other solid-state components formed in or on a common substrate including components using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part with components specially adapted for either the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy or for the control of electrical energy by such radiation
• H01L 51/44 - Solid state devices using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of such devices, or of parts thereof specially adapted either for the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy or for the control of electrical energy by such radiation - Details of devices
• H01L 27/146 - Imager structures

Abstract

Optoelectronic device (1) comprising a stack of layers arranged on an electrically insulating substrate (2), including at least one cathode (3) produced from a material having work function φ1, an electron collection layer (4), arranged above said cathode (3), produced from a material having work function φ2 and sheet resistance R, an active layer (5) comprising at least one p-type organic semiconductor material, having energy level HO1, characterised in that said work function φ2 of the electron collection layer (3) and said energy level HO1 of the active layer (5) form a potential barrier that is able to block the injection of holes from the cathode (3) to said active layer (5), and said sheet resistance R of said electron collection layer (4) is greater than or equal to 108 Ω.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 51/42 - Solid state devices using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of such devices, or of parts thereof specially adapted either for the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy or for the control of electrical energy by such radiation
• H01L 27/30 - Devices consisting of a plurality of semiconductor or other solid-state components formed in or on a common substrate including components using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part with components specially adapted for either the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy or for the control of electrical energy by such radiation

Abstract

The invention relates to a radiology assembly (10) and to a method for aligning such an assembly, comprising: a tube (11) for generating an x-ray beam (12) centred on a main emission direction (13); and a planar sensor (14) that is substantially perpendicular to the main emission direction (13), said sensor being intended to receive the x-rays (12). According to the invention, the radiology assembly (10) comprises: a first discontinuous emitter (15, 16) made up of two electromagnetic-field emitting portions, said emitter being placed so as to emit a first electromagnetic field in a main direction that is substantially perpendicular to the main emission direction (13), each of the two emitting portions of the discontinuous emitter (15, 16) being positioned on either side of the x-ray beam (12); electromagnetic-field sensors (29, 30, 31, 32) that are securely fastened to the planar sensor (14) and that are able to detect the electromagnetic fields emitted by the emitters (15, 16) and to generate an electrical signal depending on the detected electromagnetic fields; and a means (17) for processing the electrical signal, which means is intended to determine the relative position of the planar sensor (14) with respect to the generating tube (11).

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 6/08 - Auxiliary means for directing the radiation beam to a particular spot, e.g. using light beams
• A61B 6/00 - Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosisApparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis combined with radiation therapy equipment

Abstract

A method for calibrating a digital imager using a sequence of P input images, to which images a calibrating image is applied to obtain a sequence of P output images is provided. The calibration is performed by updating the calibrating image by estimating, in an iteration n, n being an integer higher than or equal to 1, an image representative of the calibrating image.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 17/00 - Diagnosis, testing or measuring for television systems or their details
• H04N 17/02 - Diagnosis, testing or measuring for television systems or their details for colour television signals
• G06T 7/80 - Analysis of captured images to determine intrinsic or extrinsic camera parameters, i.e. camera calibration
• H04N 5/217 - Circuitry for suppressing or minimising disturbance, e.g. moire or halo in picture signal generation
• H04N 5/32 - Transforming X-rays
• H04N 5/365 - Noise processing, e.g. detecting, correcting, reducing or removing noise applied to fixed-pattern noise, e.g. non-uniformity of response
• H04N 5/367 - Noise processing, e.g. detecting, correcting, reducing or removing noise applied to fixed-pattern noise, e.g. non-uniformity of response applied to defects, e.g. non-responsive pixels
• H04N 5/232 - Devices for controlling television cameras, e.g. remote control

Abstract

The invention relates to a portable radiological cassette (3) comprising a casing (20), a digital detector of incident ionising radiation in the form of a flat panel (5), the detector being positioned in the casing and comprising a memory space (17), and suitable for generating a digital image of a patient subjected to ionising radiation to which patient an identification code is assigned (40), the digital image being stored in the memory space (17). According to the invention, the cassette (3) comprises a selection device (39) for selecting the identification code (40) of the patient, intended for writing the identification code (40) of the patient in the memory space (17). The invention further relates to a patient identification method.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 6/00 - Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosisApparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis combined with radiation therapy equipment

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for producing a first electrode/active layer/second electrode stack intended for an electronic device, in particular an organic photodetector or an organic solar cell, comprising the following steps: (a) depositing a first layer (2) of conductive material on the front face of a substrate, in order to form the first electrode; (b) depositing an active layer (3), in the form of an organic semiconductor thin layer, said layer comprising non-continuous areas. The method is characterised in that it also comprises the following steps: (d) depositing a thin layer of resin (4) on the face of the stack opposite the substrate which is at least partially transparent; (e) insulating the resin layer (4) by the rear face (10) of said substrate; (f) developing the resin layer; and (g) depositing a second layer (5) of conductive material to form the second conducting electrode.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 51/44 - Solid state devices using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of such devices, or of parts thereof specially adapted either for the conversion of the energy of such radiation into electrical energy or for the control of electrical energy by such radiation - Details of devices
• H01L 51/52 - Solid state devices using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of such devices, or of parts thereof specially adapted for light emission, e.g. organic light emitting diodes (OLED) or polymer light emitting devices (PLED) - Details of devices
• H01L 51/56 - Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of such devices or of parts thereof
• H01L 51/50 - Solid state devices using organic materials as the active part, or using a combination of organic materials with other materials as the active part; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of such devices, or of parts thereof specially adapted for light emission, e.g. organic light emitting diodes (OLED) or polymer light emitting devices (PLED)

Abstract

An electronic read circuit for a radiation detector comprises: an element sensitive to the radiation, an injection circuit, able to inject a charge at one terminal of the sensitive element, the injection circuit extending between at least one input terminal and one output terminal, the output terminal being able to be connected to the sensitive element, the injection circuit being able to produce a charge under the effect of a trigger pulse. The injection circuit is able to inject a first charge when an input terminal is connected to a first input potential and a second charge when an input terminal is connected to a second input potential. The circuit comprises means for storing a difference between an output potential of the injection circuit, called equilibrium potential, and a reference potential, such that the second charge depends on the second input potential and on the equilibrium potential.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/355 - Control of the dynamic range
• G01T 1/20 - Measuring radiation intensity with scintillation detectors
• G01T 1/24 - Measuring radiation intensity with semiconductor detectors
• H03K 4/02 - Generating pulses having essentially a finite slope or stepped portions having stepped portions, e.g. staircase waveform
• H04N 5/374 - Addressed sensors, e.g. MOS or CMOS sensors

Abstract

An integrated circuit comprising N adjacent identical blocks indexed by index j, a current block connected to preceding and following blocks, each comprising identification circuits comprises: N ordered inputs indexed i, connected to N outputs of the preceding block of same index; and N ordered outputs indexed i, connected to N inputs of the following block of same index; each input for i≠N of the current block connected by routing line indexed to output i+1 of the current block; last input N of the current block not connected to output of the current block; and first output 1 of the current block not connected to input of the current block; each block comprising: a connection pad; and N logic gates indexed i, each gate comprising first and second inputs and an output, N buses indexed i comprising a line through N blocks, and connected to output of a logic gate.

IPC Classes  ?

• G11C 5/02 - Disposition of storage elements, e.g. in the form of a matrix array
• H03K 19/003 - Modifications for increasing the reliability
• H03K 19/20 - Logic circuits, i.e. having at least two inputs acting on one outputInverting circuits characterised by logic function, e.g. AND, OR, NOR, NOT circuits
• H04N 5/378 - Readout circuits, e.g. correlated double sampling [CDS] circuits, output amplifiers or A/D converters
• G11C 5/06 - Arrangements for interconnecting storage elements electrically, e.g. by wiring
• G11C 7/18 - Bit line organisationBit line lay-out
• G11C 5/04 - Supports for storage elementsMounting or fixing of storage elements on such supports
• G11C 11/4097 - Bit-line organisation, e.g. bit-line layout, folded bit lines

Abstract

An image detector comprises a sensor produced on a first monolithic substrate comprising a set of pixels organized in a matrix on rows and columns and configured to generate signals as a function of a radiation striking the detector, column conductors, each linking the pixels of a same column and intended to convey the signals generated by the pixels, at least one bump contact situated at the periphery of the first substrate and outside of the matrix of pixels and linked to the column conductors. At least two column conductors are connected together on the first substrate outside of the matrix of pixels and the column conductors connected together converge toward the at least one bump contact.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/378 - Readout circuits, e.g. correlated double sampling [CDS] circuits, output amplifiers or A/D converters
• H01L 27/146 - Imager structures
• H04N 5/374 - Addressed sensors, e.g. MOS or CMOS sensors

Abstract

A method for processing signals collected by pixels of a detector, each pixel being able to collect a signal under the effect of radiation to which the detector is subjected comprises: identifying a pixel, termed the affected pixel, generating a signal greater than a threshold, defining at least one adjacent pixel of the affected pixel, and, for each adjacent pixel: selecting a first comparison group associated with the affected pixel and a second comparison group associated with the adjacent pixel, the first and second comparison groups not comprising any pixel in common, comparing signals collected by each comparison group so as to determine the comparison group that has accumulated the most significant amount of signal.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01T 1/17 - Circuit arrangements not adapted to a particular type of detector
• H04N 5/217 - Circuitry for suppressing or minimising disturbance, e.g. moire or halo in picture signal generation
• H04N 5/32 - Transforming X-rays
• H04N 5/321 - Transforming X-rays with video transmission of fluoroscopic images
• H04N 5/325 - Image enhancement, e.g. by subtraction techniques using polyenergetic X-rays
• H04N 5/359 - Noise processing, e.g. detecting, correcting, reducing or removing noise applied to excess charges produced by the exposure, e.g. smear, blooming, ghost image, crosstalk or leakage between pixels
• G01T 1/20 - Measuring radiation intensity with scintillation detectors

Abstract

A solid-state radiation detector comprising a photosensitive sensor comprises photosensitive elements that are organized in a matrix, and a light generator whose purpose is to optically wipe the photosensitive elements. The light generator comprises: an electroluminescent layer that is distributed over the surface of the sensor; at least one electrode that continuously covers the electroluminescent layer and in which electrons may flow, the light emitted by the electroluminescent layer being capable of passing through the electrode; and additional electrical conductors that are in electrical contact with the electrode, the additional electrical conductors forming branches that extend over the surface of the electrode, and being spatially distributed across the surface of the electrode.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 27/146 - Imager structures
• G01T 1/20 - Measuring radiation intensity with scintillation detectors

Abstract

The invention relates to a sigma-delta converter comprising a sigma-delta modulator suitable for generating a series of binary samples (BS (k)) representative of an analog input signal (Vin) to be digitized, in which at least one analog signal in the modulator is weighted by a factor that varies according to a first predetermined rule (f).

IPC Classes  ?

• H03M 3/00 - Conversion of analogue values to or from differential modulation

Abstract

A portable radiological cassette is designed to equip a digital radiological system. The cassette comprises a digital ionizing radiation detector in the form of a flat panel which makes it possible to provide an image which depends on the radiation received, with an electronic board ensuring the control of the digital detector, and a casing ensuring the mechanical protection of the detector and the electronic board. The cassette additionally comprises a flat seating which supports the detector on a first one of its main faces, and supports the electronic board on a second one of its main faces, the two main faces being opposite. The seating is formed by a heterogeneous stack produced such that the surface thermal conductivity of the seating is greater than the transverse thermal conductivity of the seating.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01T 1/17 - Circuit arrangements not adapted to a particular type of detector
• G01T 1/20 - Measuring radiation intensity with scintillation detectors
• A61B 6/00 - Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosisApparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis combined with radiation therapy equipment

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for calibrating a digital imager from a sequence of P input images (An), to which a calibration image (C_REF) is applied in order to obtain a sequence of P output images (Yn). According to the invention, the calibration is carried out by updating the calibration image (C_REF) by estimation, with n iterations, of an image (Cn) representative of the calibration image (C_REF), n being a whole number higher than or equal to 1.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 17/00 - Diagnosis, testing or measuring for television systems or their details
• H04N 5/32 - Transforming X-rays
• H04N 5/367 - Noise processing, e.g. detecting, correcting, reducing or removing noise applied to fixed-pattern noise, e.g. non-uniformity of response applied to defects, e.g. non-responsive pixels
• H04N 5/365 - Noise processing, e.g. detecting, correcting, reducing or removing noise applied to fixed-pattern noise, e.g. non-uniformity of response
• H04N 5/217 - Circuitry for suppressing or minimising disturbance, e.g. moire or halo in picture signal generation

Goods & Services

Electronic imaging devices; video imaging systems; chromatography apparatus for laboratory use; radiological apparatus for industrial purposes; X-ray photographs, other than for medical purposes; detectors; digital plotters; computer software for processing digital images; optical sensors; magnetic data media. Medical imaging apparatus; magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] apparatus; diagnostic imaging apparatus for medical purposes; radiological apparatus for medical purposes; radiology screens for medical purposes; X-ray apparatus for medical purposes; magnetic resonance tomography [MRT] apparatus; magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] scanners. Scientific and industrial research in the field of medical radiology; research and development in the field of medical imaging.

Abstract

According to the invention, the image detector (100; 110; 120; 130; 200; 300; 400; 500) comprises a sensor (101; 111; 121; 131; 201; 301; 401; 501) produced on a first monolithic substrate (12) comprising a set of pixels (P(i.j)) organised in a matrix (13) in rows (Li) and columns (Cj) and configured so as to generate signals based on a radiation hitting the detector (100; 200; 300; 400); column conductors (Yj), each connecting the pixels (Pi,j) of a same column (Cj) and designed to transport the signals generated by the pixels; and at least one contact stud (14, 140) situated at the periphery of the first substrate (12) and outside the matrix (13) of pixels (P(i,j)) and connected to the column conductors (Cj). At least two column conductors (Yj) are connected to one another on the first substrate (12) outside the matrix (13) of pixels (P(i,j)), and the column conductors (Yj) connected to one another converge toward the at least one contact stud (14, 140).

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/378 - Readout circuits, e.g. correlated double sampling [CDS] circuits, output amplifiers or A/D converters
• H01L 27/146 - Imager structures

Goods & Services

Electronic imaging devices in the field of X-ray imaging not for medical use; video imaging systems not for medical use comprised of [ image display, video camera, optical coupling, image intensifier, collimator, X-ray tube, X-ray generator, ] flat panel detector; [ chromatography apparatus for laboratory use; ] radiological apparatus for industrial purposes; X-ray photographs, other than for medical purposes; electronic detectors for detecting X-ray and gamma ray radiation [ ; digital plotters; computer software for processing digital images; optical sensors; blank magnetic data media; prerecorded magnetic data media featuring X-ray digital images ] Medical imaging apparatus; [ magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) apparatus for medical purposes; ] diagnostic imaging apparatus for medical purposes; radiological apparatus for medical purposes; radiology screens for medical purposes; X-ray apparatus for medical purposes [ ; magnetic resonance tomography (MRT) apparatus for medical purposes; magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners for medical purposes ] Scientific and industrial research in the field of medical radiology; research and development in the field of medical imaging

Abstract

The invention relates to an integrated circuit (10) including a plurality of N adjacent identical blocks indexed with an index j, a current block (Bj) being connected to a preceding block (Bj-1) and to a following block (Bj+1), each block including an identification circuit (Ij) including: N ordered inputs that are indexed i (Ei (j)) and are connected to N outputs of the preceding block (Bj-1) which has the same index, and N ordered outputs indexed i (Si(j)), connected to N inputs of the following block (Bj+1) having the same index; and each input i (Ei (j)) for i ≠ N of the current block (Bj) is connected by a routing line indexed i (Li) to the output i+1 (Si+1(j)) of the current block. A last input N (EN(j)) of the current block (Bj) is connected to no output of said current block, and a first output 1 (S1(j)) of the current block (Bj) is connected to no input of said current block, each block (B) further including: at least one connection pad (Pad0), and N logic gates indexed i (Pi), each logic gate (Pi) including a first input (Pin1)(i)); a second input (Pin2)(i)) and an output (Pout(i)); and N bus indexed i each including a line passing through all of the N blocks, each bus being connected to the output (Pout(i)) of a single logic gate (Pi).

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/378 - Readout circuits, e.g. correlated double sampling [CDS] circuits, output amplifiers or A/D converters
• H01L 21/768 - Applying interconnections to be used for carrying current between separate components within a device

Abstract

The invention relates to an electronic read circuit for a radiation detector comprising: • an element (11) sensitive to the radiation, • an injection circuit, able to inject a charge at one terminal of the sensitive element (11), the injection circuit (14) extending between at least one input terminal and one output terminal, the output terminal being able to be connected to said sensitive element (11), the injection circuit (14) being able to produce a charge under the effect of a trigger pulse. The injection circuit is able to inject a first charge when an input terminal is connected to a first input potential and a second charge when an input terminal is connected to a second input potential (Vinj2, Phiinj)). The circuit comprises means for storing a difference between an output potential of the injection circuit (14), called equilibrium potential, and a reference potential, such that the second charge depends on the second input potential and on said equilibrium potential.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01T 1/16 - Measuring radiation intensity

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for processing signals collected by the pixels of a detector, each pixel being able to collect a signal under the effect of radiation to which the detector is subjected. According to the invention, the method consists of: • identifying a pixel (P0), called affected pixel, generating a signal above a threshold, • defining at least one pixel (P1... P4) adjacent to the affected pixel (P0), and • for each adjacent pixel (P1... P4): - selecting a first comparison group associated with said affected pixel (P0) and a second comparison group associated with said adjacent pixel (P1... P4), said first and second comparison groups not comprising any shared pixels, - comparing the signals collected by each comparison group so as to determine which comparison group has accumulated the greatest signal quantity.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/217 - Circuitry for suppressing or minimising disturbance, e.g. moire or halo in picture signal generation
• G01T 1/00 - Measuring X-radiation, gamma radiation, corpuscular radiation, or cosmic radiation
• H04N 5/321 - Transforming X-rays with video transmission of fluoroscopic images
• H04N 5/325 - Image enhancement, e.g. by subtraction techniques using polyenergetic X-rays
• H04N 5/359 - Noise processing, e.g. detecting, correcting, reducing or removing noise applied to excess charges produced by the exposure, e.g. smear, blooming, ghost image, crosstalk or leakage between pixels

Abstract

The present invention relates to a solid-state radiation detector (10) including a photosensitive sensor (13) comprising photosensitive elements (16) organized into a matrix, and a generator (14) of light intended to optically wipe the photosensitive elements (16). According to the invention, the generator (14) of light comprises: a light-emitting layer (21) distributed over the surface of the sensor (13); at least one electrode (22, 23) continuously covering the light-emitting layer (21) and through which electrons are able to flow, the light emitted by the light-emitting layer (21) being able to pass through the electrode (22, 23); and additional electrical conductors (24, 36) making electrical contact with the electrode (22, 23), the additional electrical conductors (24, 36) forming branches extending over the surface of the electrode (22, 23), and being spatially distributed over the surface of the electrode (22, 23).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 27/146 - Imager structures
• H01L 33/38 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES NOT COVERED BY CLASS - Details thereof characterised by the electrodes with a particular shape

Goods & Services

Electronic imaging devices; video imaging systems; chromatography apparatus for laboratory use; radiological apparatus for industrial purposes; X-ray photographs, other than for medical purposes; detectors; digital plotters; computer software for processing digital images; optical sensors; magnetic data media. Medical imaging apparatus; magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] apparatus; diagnostic imaging apparatus for medical purposes; radiological apparatus for medical purposes; radiology screens for medical purposes; X-ray apparatus for medical purposes; magnetic resonance tomography [MRT] apparatus; magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] scanners. Scientific and industrial research in the field of medical radiology; research and development in the field of medical imaging.

Abstract

A method is provided for controlling a light-sensitive device, for example, a digital X-ray detector including an array of light-sensitive points. The light-sensitive device includes a column conductor, line conductors, and light-sensitive points. Each light-sensitive point is connected between the column conductor and one of the line conductors, and includes a light-sensitive element converting a photon flux into electrical charges, and a transistor transferring the electrical charges to the column conductor based on control of a signal received by the corresponding line conductor. The method depends on the presence of a capacitor for cross-coupling between the drain and source of each transistor in the off state. The capacitor provides a potential variation to the column conductor upon receiving photons. The method comprises comparing the potential variation with a threshold, and reading the light-sensitive points in the event that the result of the comparison is positive.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01T 1/24 - Measuring radiation intensity with semiconductor detectors
• H04N 5/232 - Devices for controlling television cameras, e.g. remote control
• H04N 5/32 - Transforming X-rays
• H04N 5/353 - Control of the integration time
• H04N 5/374 - Addressed sensors, e.g. MOS or CMOS sensors

Abstract

In the field of imaging devices comprising a detector generating electric charges in response to incident photon radiation, and an analog-to-digital conversion circuit forming means for reading the quantity of electric charges generated, an analog-to-digital conversion circuit comprises: a comparator which can switch depending on the comparison between a potential on an integration node and a predetermined threshold potential, a counter incrementing with each switch of the comparator, a counter-charge injection circuit injecting a quantity Qc of counter-charges on the integration node with each switch of the comparator, and control means which determine the quantity Qc of counter-charges injected. The analog-to-digital conversion circuit is characterized in that the control means determine the quantity Qc of counter-charges injected as a function of a value of the counter.

IPC Classes  ?

• H03M 1/34 - Analogue value compared with reference values
• H03M 1/18 - Automatic control for modifying the range of signals the converter can handle, e.g. gain ranging
• G01J 1/02 - Photometry, e.g. photographic exposure meter Details
• G01J 1/18 - Photometry, e.g. photographic exposure meter by comparison with reference light or electric value using electric radiation detectors using comparison with a reference electric value
• H03M 1/60 - Analogue/digital converters with intermediate conversion to frequency of pulses

Abstract

Enhancement of the reliability of an imaging device comprising several pixels is provided, each of the pixels comprising several first blocks of electronic components organized as a matrix and joined by links to row buses and column buses of the matrix allowing the powering and control of each of the first blocks for its nominal operation. Each of the pixels moreover comprises, associated with the first block, programmable means for disconnection of the first block from the at least one of the buses. Locating of a fault in a device is also provided, the fault occurring in one of the first blocks and leading to a generalized fault in several first blocks.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 17/00 - Diagnosis, testing or measuring for television systems or their details
• H04N 17/02 - Diagnosis, testing or measuring for television systems or their details for colour television signals
• H04N 5/374 - Addressed sensors, e.g. MOS or CMOS sensors
• H01L 27/146 - Imager structures
• H04N 5/367 - Noise processing, e.g. detecting, correcting, reducing or removing noise applied to fixed-pattern noise, e.g. non-uniformity of response applied to defects, e.g. non-responsive pixels
• H04N 5/3745 - Addressed sensors, e.g. MOS or CMOS sensors having additional components embedded within a pixel or connected to a group of pixels within a sensor matrix, e.g. memories, A/D converters, pixel amplifiers, shared circuits or shared components

Abstract

The invention concerns a method for reading an imaging device intended for capturing images in a detector comprising a high number of photosensitive points called pixels organised into a matrix. The pixels of a given column are linked to a column conductor (Col(j)) that makes it possible to consecutively read photosignals acquired by the pixels of the column, the method consisting, for each of the pixels, of carrying out a correlated double sampling read phase, the read phase comprising an operation of resetting the pixel (11, 15) followed by two reading operations (12, 14, 16, 18), the first without a photosignal, and the second with the photosignal. According to the invention, for the pixels of a given column, three steps are carried out in succession: 1 a first of the operations of reading (14; 72) the pixel of a first row (I), 2 one of the operations of reading (18; 76) a second row (1+1), 3 a second of the operations of reading (12; 74) the pixel of the first row (I).

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/341 - Extracting pixel data from an image sensor by controlling scanning circuits, e.g. by modifying the number of pixels having been sampled or to be sampled
• H04N 5/353 - Control of the integration time
• H04N 5/374 - Addressed sensors, e.g. MOS or CMOS sensors
• H04N 5/378 - Readout circuits, e.g. correlated double sampling [CDS] circuits, output amplifiers or A/D converters

Abstract

The invention relates to a portable radiological cassette intended to be employed in a digital radiological system. The cassette comprises a digital detector (5) of ionising radiation, taking the form of a flat panel allowing an image to be delivered depending on the radiation received, an electronic board (18) tasked with managing the digital detector (5) and a casing mechanically protecting the detector (5) and the electronic board (18). According to the invention, the cassette furthermore comprises a flat seating (29) bearing the detector (5) on a first of its main faces (35) and the electronic board (18) on a second of its main faces (36), the two main faces (35, 36) being opposite. The seating (29) is formed of a heterogeneous multilayer produced so that the surface thermal conductivity of the seating (29) is higher than the thermal conductivity through the seating (29).

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 6/00 - Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosisApparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis combined with radiation therapy equipment

Abstract

The invention relates to the field of digital imaging devices, in particular devices for X-ray medical imaging. The invention relates to an imaging device including pixels that are individually addressed by addressing circuits, and to a method for producing such an imaging device via photolithography. The imaging device comprises a sensor (61), the surface area of which is greater than or equal to 10 cm2, and which includes: an image area (23) produced on a single substrate (22) and comprising a set of pixels (24) arranged in lines and columns, the number of pixels per column not being uniform for all of the pixel columns, each pixel (24) collecting electrical charges generated by a photosensitive element; line conductors connecting the pixels line-by-line; column conductors connecting the pixels column-by-column; line addressing units (12) connected to the line conductors in order to address each line of pixels individually; and column reading units connected to the column conductors in order to read the electrical charges collected by the pixels (24) of the line selected by the line addressing units (12), the column reading units being located at the periphery of the image area (23), the line addressing units (12) and the column reading units being produced on the same substrate (22) as the image area.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 27/146 - Imager structures

Abstract

The invention belongs to the field of imaging devices comprising: a detector (11) that generates electric charges in response to incident photon radiation, and an analog-digital conversion circuit (12) forming means for reading the quantity of electric charges generated. The analog-to-digital conversion circuit (12) comprises: a comparator (122) which can switch depending on the comparison between a potential (Va) on an integration node (A) and a pre-determined threshold potential (Vthreshold); a counter (123) that is incremented with each switch of the comparator; a counter-charge injection circuit (124) which injects a quantity Qc of counter-charges at the integration node (A) with each switch of the comparator; and control means (125) which determine the quantity Qc of counter-charges injected. The analog-to-digital conversion circuit (12) is characterised in that the control means (125) determine the quantity Qc of counter-charges injected as a function of a value of the counter (123).

IPC Classes  ?

• H03M 1/18 - Automatic control for modifying the range of signals the converter can handle, e.g. gain ranging
• H03M 1/60 - Analogue/digital converters with intermediate conversion to frequency of pulses

Abstract

An electromagnetic radiation detector used for imaging comprises a plurality of pixels, each of which converts the electromagnetic radiation to which it is subjected into an electrical signal. Each pixel comprises a plurality of photosensitive elements each converting the radiation received by the photosensitive element into an elementary electrical signal and selection means that select from the elementary electrical signals generated by the photosensitive elements so as to form the electrical output signal of the pixel depending on a gain range chosen for the detector.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01T 1/20 - Measuring radiation intensity with scintillation detectors
• G01T 1/24 - Measuring radiation intensity with semiconductor detectors
• H04N 5/355 - Control of the dynamic range
• H04N 5/3745 - Addressed sensors, e.g. MOS or CMOS sensors having additional components embedded within a pixel or connected to a group of pixels within a sensor matrix, e.g. memories, A/D converters, pixel amplifiers, shared circuits or shared components

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for controlling a light-sensitive device, for example, a digital X-ray detector including an array of light-sensitive points. The light-sensitive device includes a column conductor, line conductors, and light-sensitive points. Each light-sensitive point is connected between the column conductor and one of the line conductors, and includes a light-sensitive element capable of converting a photon flux into electrical charges, and a transistor capable of transferring the electrical charges to the column conductor based on the control of a signal received by the corresponding line conductor. The invention depends on the presence of a capacitor for cross-coupling between the drain and the source of each transistor in the off state. Said capacitor provides a potential variation to the column conductor upon receiving photons. The method according to the invention comprises steps (21, 22, 23, 24) for comparing the potential variation with a threshold, and a step (25) of reading the light-sensitive points is carried out in the event that the result of the comparison is positive.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/32 - Transforming X-rays
• H04N 5/353 - Control of the integration time
• H04N 5/374 - Addressed sensors, e.g. MOS or CMOS sensors
• H04N 5/232 - Devices for controlling television cameras, e.g. remote control

Abstract

The invention relates to an electronic circuit especially comprising: a comparator (12) receiving a threshold potential (Vcomp) and the potential of an integration node (N), said node being able to store electrical charges generated by a photosensitive element (11); a meter (13) connected at the outlet of the comparator (12); and a circuit (41) for injecting counter-charges. Said injection circuit comprises: a capacitor (143) storing counter-charges; a transfer transistor (M2) that can be controlled in the conducting state for transferring counter-charges from a terminal (A) of the capacitor (143) to the integration node (N) on every oscillation of the comparator (12), the transfer of the counter-charges triggering a variation of a potential (Va) at said terminal (A) of the capacitor (143); and a regulation circuit (42) for controlling the transfer transistor (M2), said regulation circuit comprising means (425) for controlling the transfer transistor (M2) in the conducting state when the potential at the terminal (A) of the capacitor (143) is between two pre-determined potentials (Vp2, Vcomp2) that are independent of the transfer transistor (M2).

IPC Classes  ?

• G01T 1/24 - Measuring radiation intensity with semiconductor detectors

Abstract

The invention relates to an imaging device comprising a matrix (10; 20; 30) of pixels (P(i,j); Q(ij); R(ij); X(ij); Y(ij)) organised in lines and columns, and a method for implementing said device. According to the invention, each current pixel (P(ij); Q(ij); R(ij); X(ij); Y(ij)) comprises : a line cluster interrupter (B(i,j)) allowing the current pixel (P(ij); Q(ij); R(ij); X(ij); Y(ij)) to be grouped with the following pixel (P(ij+1 ); Q(ij+1 ); R(ij+1 ); X(U+1 ); Y(U+1 )) of the same line; a column cluster interrupter (A(ij)) allowing the current pixel (P(i,j); Q(i,j); R(i,j); X(i,j); Y(i,j)) to be grouped with the following pixel (P(i+1,j); Q(i+1 j); R(i+1 J); X(i+1,j); Y(i+1 j)) of the same column; and storage means (M(i,j); U(i,j); V(i,j)) for defining the state, conducting or blocking, of the two cluster interrupters (A(i,j), B(U)).

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/347 - Extracting pixel data from an image sensor by controlling scanning circuits, e.g. by modifying the number of pixels having been sampled or to be sampled by combining or binning pixels in SSIS
• H04N 5/367 - Noise processing, e.g. detecting, correcting, reducing or removing noise applied to fixed-pattern noise, e.g. non-uniformity of response applied to defects, e.g. non-responsive pixels
• H04N 5/3745 - Addressed sensors, e.g. MOS or CMOS sensors having additional components embedded within a pixel or connected to a group of pixels within a sensor matrix, e.g. memories, A/D converters, pixel amplifiers, shared circuits or shared components
• H04N 5/376 - Addressing circuits

Abstract

The invention relates to the enhancing of the reliability of an imaging device comprising several pixels, each of the pixels comprising several first blocks (A(i, j)) of electronic components organized as a matrix and connected by links to line buses (L_ix, Vdd) and column buses (C_jx, Vss) of the matrix allowing the powering and control of each of the first blocks (A(i, j)) for its nominal operation. According to the invention, each of the pixels furthermore comprises, associated with the first block (A(i, j)), programmable means (M(i, j)) of disconnecting the first block (A(i, j)) with respect to at least one of the buses. The invention also relates to the locating of a fault in a device according to the invention, the fault occurring on one of the first blocks (A(i, j)) and giving rise to a generalized fault on several first blocks (A(i, j)).

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/374 - Addressed sensors, e.g. MOS or CMOS sensors
• H04N 5/3745 - Addressed sensors, e.g. MOS or CMOS sensors having additional components embedded within a pixel or connected to a group of pixels within a sensor matrix, e.g. memories, A/D converters, pixel amplifiers, shared circuits or shared components
• H04N 5/367 - Noise processing, e.g. detecting, correcting, reducing or removing noise applied to fixed-pattern noise, e.g. non-uniformity of response applied to defects, e.g. non-responsive pixels

Abstract

A processing circuit for an X-ray sensor for collecting at least a first pixel information of a first pixel and a second pixel information of a second pixel is provided. The processing circuit comprises an amplifier (112), a feedback loop (113) and a first collecting device (111). It is provided a compensation for a non-linearity in the pixels or in the pixel circuits (100, 200) by applying an inverse non-linearity (125) in the periphery of the X-ray sensor. A processing circuit (110) may provide a copy of a pixel voltage and/or of a pixel charge. In the case of pixel charge a non-linear characteristic of a pixel capacitance may be compensated.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 5/32 - Transforming X-rays
• H04N 5/378 - Readout circuits, e.g. correlated double sampling [CDS] circuits, output amplifiers or A/D converters
• H04N 5/365 - Noise processing, e.g. detecting, correcting, reducing or removing noise applied to fixed-pattern noise, e.g. non-uniformity of response

Abstract

The application describes an X-ray detector for use in a medical equipment, wherein the detector comprises an unit for transforming X-ray radiation into electrical charge, a first capacitor for being charged by an electrical charge, wherein the first capacitor is electrically connected to the unit for transforming, a second capacitor for being charged by an electrical charge, and a first gain switching gate, wherein the second capacitor is electrically connected with the unit for transforming if the first gain switching gate is in on-state, wherein the detector is adapted to switch on the first gain switching gate for short periods. Further the application describes an X-ray system comprising a detector according to the invention, wherein the system is adapted for gain selection, wherein the detector is adapted to switch on the first gain switching gate for short periods. Further, the application describes a method for using a detector according to the inventive concept, wherein the first gain switching gate is switched on only for short periods of time for redistribution of electrical charge between the first capacitor and the second capacitor.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01T 1/20 - Measuring radiation intensity with scintillation detectors

Abstract

An x-ray detector and its pixel circuit are described, that allow to cover a large dynamic range with automatic selection of the sensitivity setting in each pixel, thus providing improved signal to noise ratio with all exposure levels. X-ray detectors are required to cover a large dynamic range. The largest exposure determines the required pixel capacitance. However, a large pixel capacitance gives a bad signal to noise ratio with small exposures e.g. in the dark parts of the image. This invention disclosure describes several approaches to provide automatic sensitivity selection in the pixels. This ensures that low signals are stored in a small capacitor or read out with a high sensitivity with corresponding good signal to noise ratio, while larger signals are stored in larger capacitors or are read out with lower sensitivity so that no information is lost.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01T 1/24 - Measuring radiation intensity with semiconductor detectors

Abstract

The invention provides a semiconductor device (11) for radiation detection, which comprises a substrate region (1) of a substrate semiconductor material, such as silicon, and a detection region (3) at a surface of the semiconductor device (11), in which detection region (3) charge carriers of a first conductivity type, such as electrons, are generated and detected upon incidence of electromagnetic radiation (L) on the semiconductor device (11). The semiconductor device (11) further comprises a barrier region (2,5,14) of a barrier semiconductor material or an isolation material, which barrier region (2,5,14) is an obstacle between the substrate region (1) and the detection region (3) for charge carriers that are generated in the substrate region (1) by penetration of ionizing radiation (X), such as X-rays, into the substrate region (1). This way the invention provides a semiconductor device (11) for radiation detection in which the influence on the performance of the semiconductor device (11) of ionizing radiation (X), such as X-rays, that penetrates into the substrate region (1) is reduced.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 31/115 - Devices sensitive to very short wavelength, e.g. X-rays, gamma-rays or corpuscular radiation

Abstract

The invention relates to a digital radiological system and to a method for implementing said radiological system. The digital radiological system includes a mobile cassette (3), a fixed base station (1) and a ionising radiation source (2), the cassette (3) including means for acquiring an image according to the ionising radiation to which the cassette (3) is submitted, the system further comprising communication means (5, 6) between the cassette (3) and the base station (1) for transferring data such as an image between the cassette (3) and the base station (1). The communication means include a first antenna (5; 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) connected to the base station (1) and a second antenna (6) belonging to the cassette (3), the second antenna (6) being connected to the image acquisition means and the data being transferred between the two antennas (5, 6; 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d). The first antenna (5; 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) is offset relative to the base station (1) in order to be closer to the cassette (3). According to the method, in case of reception of several broadcasts by one of said antennas (5, 6; 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d), the system decides to process the broadcast having the highest level.

IPC Classes  ?

• A61B 6/00 - Apparatus or devices for radiation diagnosisApparatus or devices for radiation diagnosis combined with radiation therapy equipment
• G03B 42/02 - Obtaining records using waves other than optical wavesVisualisation of such records by using optical means using X-rays

Goods & Services

Flat solid state radiological detectors for industrial purposes. Flat solid state radiological detectors for medical purposes.

Goods & Services

(1) Détecteurs radiologiques plats état solide, nommément pour utilisation industrielle ou médicale.

Goods & Services

Flat radiography digital sensor for non-medical purposes. Flat radiography digital sensor for medical purposes.

Goods & Services

X-RAY APPARATUS FOR MEDICAL, NON-INVASIVE TESTING USE, NAMELY, X-RAY SOLID STATE FLAT DETECTORS