Modular luminescence-based measuring system using fast digital signal processing

摘要

A luminescence-based integrated optical and electronic system for measuring temperature or some other parameter from the decay time of a luminescent sensor is disclosed. A high bandwidth, low noise amplifier applies a detected decaying luminescent signal to a digital system that acquires that signal and processes it in order to determine its decay time characteristics that are related to temperature or another parameter being measured. The digital signal processing includes use of a digital curve-fitting technique. A preferred luminescent material for temperature measurement is a chromium-doped yttrium gallium garnet material. The entire optical and electronic portions of the measuring system can be accommodated on a small single circuit card.