Large arrays of discrete ionizing radiation detectors multiplexed using fluorescent optical converters

摘要

The present invention is a large scintillator array multiplexing apparatus and method in which individual scintillators are coupled to fluorescent optical converters that absorb the light emitted by the scintillators and emit at longer wavelengths. Loss of light is minimized by maximizing total internal reflection of the longer wavelength emissions by the use of reflectors and mirrors. The wavelength-shifted radiation is conducted to electro-optic detectors which, when activated, directly encode the location of the scintillator that has been excited by ionizing radiation. Using this method, scintillator arrays consisting of thousands of individual scintillators can be built without undue complexity or cost and the resolution of the imaging system can be enhanced beyond the range possible using prior art methods.