{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854231","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854231","title":"Silicon photomultipliers with internal calibration circuitry","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2014-12-18T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04N","H04N"],"num_claims":18,"abstract":"A silicon photomultiplier includes a plurality of microcells providing a pulse output in response to an incident radiation, each microcell including circuitry configured to enable and disable the pulse output. Each microcell includes a cell disable switch. The control logic circuit controls the cell disable switch and a self-test circuit. A microcell's pulse output is disabled when the cell disable switch is in a first state. A method for self-test calibration of microcells includes providing a test enable signal to the microcells, integrating dark current for a predetermined time period, comparing the integrated dark current to a predetermined threshold level, and providing a signal if above the predetermined threshold level."},"analysis":{"summary":"The Silicon Photomultipliers with Internal Calibration Circuitry patent addresses the challenge of performance variations in silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) by integrating self-testing and calibration circuitry directly into the device. The core innovation is the ability to identify and disable individual microcells within the SiPM that exhibit performance issues, such as high dark current or inconsistent response. This is achieved through a control logic circuit that manages cell disable switches and a self-test circuit. The self-test circuit integrates dark current over a defined period and compares it to a threshold, signaling potential problems. This approach improves the accuracy and reliability of SiPMs, which are used in applications like medical imaging, high-energy physics, and environmental monitoring.\n\nThe problem being solved is the inherent variability in microcell performance due to manufacturing inconsistencies and environmental factors, which can lead to inaccurate measurements. This technology offers a solution by enabling dynamic identification and compensation for these variations, resulting in more consistent and reliable results.\n\nThe business value lies in the potential for improved image quality in medical imaging, more precise measurements in scientific research, and more reliable environmental monitoring. The simplified calibration process reduces the need for external equipment and expertise, lowering costs and increasing accessibility. The market opportunity is significant, as SiPMs are used in a wide range of applications where accurate light detection is crucial. The system provides a way to continuously monitor the SiPM’s performance, enabling proactive identification and resolution of potential issues. This innovation represents a valuable advancement in SiPM technology, offering a compelling value proposition for various industries.","layman_explanation":"The Silicon Photomultipliers with Internal Calibration Circuitry patent addresses a critical problem in various industries that rely on accurate light detection, such as medical imaging and scientific research. Existing light detection systems, particularly those using silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs), suffer from inconsistencies in the performance of individual light-sensing elements, leading to inaccurate readings and unreliable results.\n\nThis patent offers a solution by integrating a self-calibration system directly into the SiPM. Instead of relying on external calibration procedures, this technology allows the SiPM to automatically test each individual light-sensing element and disable those that are not performing optimally. Think of it like a digital camera with built-in image stabilization – it automatically compensates for any imperfections to produce a clearer picture.\n\nThis innovation matters because it significantly improves the accuracy and reliability of light detection systems. In medical imaging, this can lead to clearer images and more accurate diagnoses. In scientific research, it can enable more precise measurements and groundbreaking discoveries. The self-calibration feature also simplifies the use of SiPMs, making them more accessible to a wider range of users. The potential ROI is substantial, as improved accuracy and reliability can lead to better outcomes and reduced costs in various applications.\n\nLooking ahead, this technology could be further developed to create even more advanced light detection systems with even greater accuracy and reliability. Market adoption is likely to be driven by industries that demand the highest levels of precision, such as medical imaging and scientific research. Investment in this technology could yield significant returns as it becomes the new standard for light detection.","technical_analysis":"The Silicon Photomultipliers with Internal Calibration Circuitry patent details a system for enhancing the performance of silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) through integrated self-testing and calibration. The technical architecture centers around individual microcells, each equipped with a cell disable switch controlled by a logic circuit. This logic circuit also interfaces with a self-test circuit, enabling the assessment of each microcell's performance. The core of the innovation lies in its ability to selectively disable problematic microcells, thereby mitigating their impact on overall SiPM performance.\n\nImplementation involves providing a test enable signal to each microcell. The dark current is then integrated over a predetermined time. This integrated current is subsequently compared to a predetermined threshold level. If the current exceeds this threshold, it indicates a potential issue with the microcell, triggering the disable switch. The design of the control logic circuit is critical. It must minimize its impact on the SiPM's sensitivity and response time while reliably managing the disable switches and self-test functionality.\n\nAlgorithm specifics involve optimizing the integration time and threshold level to accurately detect microcell performance variations. This optimization may require extensive characterization of the SiPM under various operating conditions. Integration patterns are also important. The self-test circuit must seamlessly integrate with existing SiPM readout circuitry without introducing significant noise or latency.\n\nPerformance characteristics are significantly improved by this technology. By disabling problematic microcells, the overall accuracy and reliability of the SiPM are enhanced. This is particularly important in applications where precise light detection is critical, such as medical imaging and high-energy physics. Code-level implications are relevant in the design of the control logic circuit and the self-test algorithm. Efficient code is essential to minimize power consumption and ensure fast response times.","business_analysis":"The Silicon Photomultipliers with Internal Calibration Circuitry patent presents a significant business opportunity within the radiation detection and imaging markets. The market opportunity size is substantial, encompassing medical imaging (PET, SPECT), high-energy physics research, environmental monitoring, and industrial inspection. These sectors demand increasingly accurate and reliable radiation detection systems.\n\nThe competitive advantages stem from the self-calibration feature, which reduces the need for external calibration equipment and specialized personnel. This translates to lower operational costs and increased ease of use for end-users. The improved accuracy and reliability also lead to better data quality and improved decision-making in critical applications.\n\nRevenue potential can be realized through the sale of SiPMs incorporating this technology to manufacturers of medical imaging equipment, scientific instruments, and environmental monitoring systems. Business models could include direct sales, licensing of the technology, or partnerships with existing SiPM manufacturers.\n\nStrategic positioning involves targeting high-end applications where accuracy and reliability are paramount. This could include advanced medical imaging techniques, cutting-edge physics research, and critical environmental monitoring programs. ROI projections are favorable, given the potential for increased sales, reduced operational costs for end-users, and the growing demand for high-performance radiation detection systems. The key lies in effectively communicating the value proposition to target customers and establishing strategic partnerships within the industry.","faqs":null,"topics":["silicon photomultiplier","calibration","radiation detection","medical imaging","high-energy physics"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Silicon Photomultipliers with Internal Calibration Circuitry - Patent US-9854231","description":"Discover how Silicon Photomultipliers with Internal Calibration Circuitry enhances radiation detection with self-testing microcells. Full patent analysis and business impact.","keywords":["silicon photomultiplier","calibration","radiation detection","medical imaging","high-energy physics","microcell","dark current","patent","patent US-9854231"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854231","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854231","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Silicon photomultipliers with internal calibration circuitry\" (US-9854231). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854231","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854231","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854231","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-30T11:13:44.939Z"}