Dosimeter with rfid tag

This application, in the name of an optical system for dosimeter readers, claims the priority benefit of US Patent Application No. 12 / 757,214 filed by Yoder on April 9, 2010, which was filed in 2010. Radiation dosimeters and radiation readers (RADIATION) filed on January 12 READER) claims the priority benefit of Yoder's US Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 294,142, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This application also refers to the following U.S. Patent Application: U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 757,147 filed on April 9, 2010 under the name Portable Dosimeter; for use in dose measurement methods. U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 757,132 filed on April 9, 2010 under the name of New Filter; U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / filed on April 9, 2010 under the name of Dose Meter Thread. 757,162; US Patent Application No. 12 / 757,140 filed on April 9, 2010 under the name of Portable Reader for Dose Meters; Name of Data Storage and Communication Mechanism for Portable Dose Meters U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 757,168 filed on April 9, 2010; U.S. Patent Application No. 61 / 322,418 filed on April 9, 2010 under the name of Power System for Dose Meter Readers. No.; US Patent Application No. 12 / 757,184 filed on April 9, 2010 under the name of a dosimeter with an RFID tag; and a new RFID tag for use in dose measurement methods, 2010 U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 757,224 filed on April 9, 2014.

The present invention relates to a dosimeter equipped with an RFID tag.

<p> A problem with existing dosimeter reading systems is the rapid update of radiation dose information for specific individuals.</p>

<p> According to a wide range of aspects, the present invention provides dosimeters for measuring one or more radiation doses; as well as devices with RFID tags with antennas for communication with RFID tag readers and non-volatile memory for data storage. provide.</p>

<figref num="1">It is an image of the bottom of a radiometer according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="2">It is an image of the upper part of the radiation meter of FIG. 1 and the upper part of the upper housing of the radiation meter of FIG.</figref><figref num="3">It is an image of the bottom of the upper housing of FIG.</figref><figref num="4">It is an image of the upper part of the lower housing of the radiation meter of FIG.</figref><figref num="5">It is an image of the bottom of the lower housing of FIG.</figref><figref num="6">It is an image of the upper part of the thread of the radiometer of FIG.</figref><figref num="7">It is an image of the bottom of the thread of FIG.</figref><figref num="8">It is an image of the reference OSL sensor of the thread of FIG. 6 showing the reference OSL sensor in the disassembled state.</figref><figref num="9">It is an image of the reference OSL sensor of FIG. 6 in the assembled state.</figref><figref num="10">It is an image of the thread of FIG. 6 that slides into the lower housing of FIG.</figref><figref num="11">It is an image of the dosimeter thread of FIG. 6 completely slid into the lower housing of FIG.</figref><figref num="12">FIG. 3 is an upper perspective view of an upper housing of a radiometer according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="13">It is a bottom perspective view of the upper housing of FIG.</figref><figref num="14">It is a top view of the upper housing of FIG.</figref><figref num="15">It is the bottom view of the upper housing of FIG.</figref><figref num="16">It is sectional drawing of the upper housing of FIG. 12 along the line A--A of FIG.</figref><figref num="17">FIG. 3 is an upper perspective view of a lower housing of a radiometer according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="18">It is a bottom perspective view of the lower housing of FIG.</figref><figref num="19">It is a top view of the lower housing of FIG.</figref><figref num="20">It is a bottom view of the lower housing of FIG.</figref><figref num="21">FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the lower housing of FIG. 17 along line B--B of FIG.</figref><figref num="22">It is sectional drawing of the lower housing of FIG. 17 along the C--C line of FIG.</figref><figref num="23">FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the lower housing of FIG. 17 along the D--D line of FIG.</figref><figref num="24">It is sectional drawing of the lower housing of FIG. 17 along the E--E line of FIG. 22.</figref><figref num="25">It is an upper perspective view of the dosimeter thread main body of the dosimeter according to one Embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="26">It is the bottom perspective view of the dosimeter thread body of FIG.</figref><figref num="27">It is the top view of the dosimeter thread main body of FIG.</figref><figref num="28">It is the bottom view of the dosimeter thread body of FIG.</figref><figref num="29">It is a side view of the dosimeter thread main body of FIG.</figref><figref num="30">It is sectional drawing of the dosimeter thread body of FIG. 25 along the E--E line of FIG. 27.</figref><figref num="31">It is an end view of the dosimeter thread body of FIG.</figref><figref num="32">FIG. 5 is an end view of the main body of the dosimeter thread of FIG. 25 at the end of the dosimeter thread facing the end shown in FIG. 31.</figref><figref num="33">It is sectional drawing of the dosimeter thread body of FIG. 25 along the F--F line of FIG. 28.</figref><figref num="34">It is a bottom view of the dosimeter thread according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="35">It is sectional drawing of the dosimeter thread of FIG. 34 along the G--G line of FIG. 34.</figref><figref num="36">FIG. 3 is an upper perspective view of an upper housing of a radiometer according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="37">FIG. 3 is an upper perspective view of an upper housing of a radiometer according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="38">It is an exploded view of the radiation meter according to one Embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="39">It is the bottom view of the dosimeter thread main body of the dosimeter of FIG. 38.</figref><figref num="40">It is an image of the dosimeter thread of the dosimeter of FIG. 38.</figref><figref num="41">FIG. 3 is an upper perspective view of an upper housing of a radiometer according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="42">It is a bottom perspective view of the upper housing of FIG. 41.</figref><figref num="43">It is a top view of the upper housing of FIG. 41.</figref><figref num="44">It is a bottom view of the upper housing of FIG. 41.</figref><figref num="45">It is sectional drawing along the H--H line of FIG. 43.</figref><figref num="46">It is an upper perspective view of the dosimeter thread main body of the dosimeter according to one Embodiment of this invention.</figref><figref num="47">It is the bottom perspective view of the dosimeter thread body of FIG.</figref><figref num="48">It is the top view of the dosimeter thread main body of FIG. 46.</figref><figref num="49">It is the bottom view of the dosimeter thread main body of FIG. 46.</figref><figref num="50">It is a side view of the dose meter thread main body of FIG. 46.</figref><figref num="51">It is sectional drawing of the dosimeter thread body of FIG. 46 along the line I--I of FIG. 48.</figref><figref num="52">It is an end view of the dosimeter thread body of FIG. 46.</figref><figref num="53">FIG. 5 is an end view of the main body of the dosimeter thread of FIG. 46 of the end of the dosimeter thread facing the end shown in FIG. 51.</figref><figref num="54">It is sectional drawing of the dosimeter thread body of FIG. 46 along the J--J line of FIG. 49.</figref><figref num="55">It is an enlarged perspective view of the FNTD holder of the dosimeter thread main body of FIG. 46.</figref><figref num="56">FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the lower housing of the dosimeter, the upper housing of FIG. 41, and the dosimeter thread of FIG. 46 combined together.</figref><figref num="57">FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a sealed engagement portion between the lower housing and the upper housing of FIG. 56.</figref><figref num="58">It is a top view of the OSL sensor according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="59">It is sectional drawing of the OSL sensor of FIG. 58 along the K--K line.</figref><figref num="60">It is a top view of the inner filter mounted on the OSLM of the OSL sensor of FIG. 58.</figref><figref num="61">It is a cross-sectional view of the internal filter of FIG. 60 and OSLM along the L--L line of FIG. 60.</figref><figref num="62">FIG. 5 is a top view of the retention ring of the OSL sensor of FIG. 58, showing the retention ring in the relaxed state.</figref><figref num="63">It is sectional drawing of the holding ring of FIG. 58 along the M--M line of FIG. 62.</figref><figref num="64">FIG. 5 is a top view of the cylindrical cup-shaped outer filter of the OSL sensor of FIG. 58.</figref><figref num="65">It is sectional drawing of the outer filter of FIG. 61 along the N--N line of FIG. 64.</figref><figref num="66">It is an image of the radiometer of the present invention having a wristband according to one embodiment of the invention, with the wristband passed under the lower housing of the radiometer.</figref><figref num="67">It is an image of the radiometer of the present invention having a wristband according to one embodiment of the invention, with the wristband passed over the upper housing of the radiometer.</figref><figref num="68">It is an image of the radiometer of the present invention having a clip according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="69">It is an image of a dosimeter reader according to one embodiment of the present invention.</figref><figref num="70">It is an enlarged image of the dosimeter reader main body of the dosimeter reader of FIG. 69.</figref><figref num="71">It is an image of the dosimeter leader case of the dosimeter reader and the main body of the dosimeter reader in FIG. 69.</figref><figref num="72">It is an image of the dosimeter drawer of the dosimeter reader of FIG. 69.</figref><figref num="73">FIG. 72 is a magnified image of one of the two annular retainers extending through the drawer base of the dosimeter drawer.</figref><figref num="74">It is a magnified image of another annular retainer extending through the drawer base of the dosimeter drawer of FIG. 72.</figref><figref num="75">Two spring tabs extending through an opening at the base of the dosimeter drawer of FIG. 72 are shown.</figref><figref num="76">FIG. 6 is an image of the dosimeter reader of FIG. 69, with the housing cover removed to provide an enlarged image of the RFID tag reader of the dosimeter reader of FIG. 69.</figref><figref num="77">FIG. 69 is an image of the dosimeter reader body of the dosimeter reader of FIG. 69 with the housing cover removed to show details of the ready region housing, leader housing and OSL reader of FIG. 69.</figref><figref num="78">It is an image which shows the thread slider of the OSL reader of FIG. 77.</figref><figref num="79">It is an image which shows the thread slider motor of the OSL reader of FIG. 77, and the wall surface of the leader housing.</figref><figref num="80">It is an image of the OSL reader of FIG. 77 in which the slider is arranged so that the optical light pipe of the OSL reader can be seen.</figref><figref num="81">It is an enlarged image of the optical light pipe of FIG.</figref><figref num="82">It is a schematic diagram showing how the dosimeter thread blocks the optical path of the photo-optic sensor according to one embodiment of the present invention when the dosimeter thread is not in the reading position of the OSL sensor.</figref><figref num="83">FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing how a notch in the dosimeter thread opens the optical path of the optical sensor of FIG. 82 when the dosimeter thread is in the reading position of the OSL sensor.</figref><figref num="84">It is the lower image of the dosimeter reader body of the dosimeter reader of FIG. 69.</figref><figref num="85">It is the lower image of the OSL reader of FIG.</figref><figref num="86">It is an image of the annular retainer elevating part of the elevating table of the dosimeter reader main body of FIG. 84 in the completely lowered position.</figref><figref num="87">It is an image of the annular retainer elevating part of FIG. 87 at the position raised to the middle.</figref><figref num="88">It is an image of the annular retainer elevating part of FIG. 87 at the fully raised position.</figref><figref num="89">It is an image of the elevating table of the main body of the dosimeter reader of FIG.</figref><figref num="90">It is an image which shows the pinion gear of a lift and two holding tabs slidably provided in a curved slot in a pinion gear.</figref><figref num="91">It is an enlarged image of the pinion gear and the holding tab of FIG.</figref><figref num="92">It is an image of the photo optical engine frame of the dosimeter reader of FIG. 69.</figref><figref num="93">It is an image of the photo optical engine frame of FIG. 92 from different angles.</figref><figref num="94">It is an exploded view of the photo optical engine of the OSL reader of the dosimeter reader of FIG. 69.</figref><figref num="95">Partial fraction decomposition of the photo-optical engine of FIG. 94, showing the filter optical assembly in a simplified form in the assembled state, making the sides of the body of the photo-optical engine transparent to reveal more internal details. It is a figure.</figref><figref num="96">It is a perspective view of the photooptical engine of FIG. 94 in a partially assembled state, and is a transparent view for clarifying the internal details of various features of the photooptical engine.</figref><figref num="97">It is a side view of the partially assembled photooptical engine of FIG. 96, and is a transparent view for clarifying the internal details of various features of the photooptical engine.</figref><figref num="98">FIG. 94 is a perspective view of the LED interconnect PCB assembly of the photooptical engine of FIG.</figref><figref num="99">It is an exploded view of the LED internal connection PCB assembly of FIG. 98 which shows the PCB of the LED interconnect PCB assembly in a simplified form.</figref><figref num="100">FIG. 9 is a side view of the photo-optical engine of FIG. 94 in an assembled state, with a portion of the photo-optical engine removed to show internal details.</figref><figref num="101">FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a region surrounded by a circle of the photooptical engine in FIG.</figref><figref num="102">It is a schematic diagram of the OSL reader and the RFID tag reader of the dosimeter reader of FIG. 69.</figref><figref num="103">It is an image of the dosimeter of the present invention loaded in the dosimeter drawer of the dosimeter reader of FIG. 69 with the dosimeter in the initial position.</figref><figref num="104">It is an enlarged image of the radiation meter and the radiation drawer of FIG. 103.</figref><figref num="105">FIG. 3 is an image showing a radiometer in FIG. 103, in which the upper housing of the radiometer is rotated to a rotational position open from the lower housing of the radiometer.</figref><figref num="106">Sectional view of the lower housing of the dosimeter of FIG. 103 and the two spring tabs of the dosimeter of FIG. 69, with the dosimeter drawer and dosimeter extruded in front of the dosimeter preparation area of the dosimeter reader. It is a diagram showing how the two spring tabs of the dosimeter reader hold the lower housing of the dosimeter on the drawer base of the dosimeter drawer of FIG. 103.</figref><figref num="107">Image showing that the dosimeter and dosimeter drawer of FIG. 103 is pushed into the preparation area housing of the dosimeter reader of FIG. 69, and the upper housing of the dosimeter is lifted over the lower housing of the dosimeter. Is.</figref><figref num="108">Image showing that the dosimeter and dosimeter drawer of FIG. 103 is pushed into the preparation area housing of the dosimeter reader of FIG. 69, and the upper housing of the dosimeter is lifted over the lower housing of the dosimeter. Is.</figref><figref num="109">Image showing that the dosimeter and dosimeter drawer of FIG. 103 is pushed into the preparation area housing of the dosimeter reader of FIG. 69, and the upper housing of the dosimeter is lifted over the lower housing of the dosimeter. Is.</figref><figref num="110">Image showing the radiometer and dosimeter drawers of FIGS. 106, 107 and 108 fully tucked into the preparation area housing.</figref><figref num="111">A radiation reader in the condition shown in FIG. 110 is shown, showing internal details with a radiometer in the prepared area housing housing with the housing cover removed.</figref><figref num="112">The radiometer reader in the condition shown in FIG. 111 is shown, showing the slider of the OSL reader with the upper housing removed and engaging the dosimeter thread of the radiometer.</figref><figref num="113">Shown is a dosimeter thread in Figure 112 that is pulled out of the lower housing of the radiometer and pulled into the OSL leader housing by the puller pusher of the OSL reader.</figref><figref num="114">Comparator of dosimeter thread The dosimeter thread of FIG. 113 is shown as pulled by the slider of the OSL reader to the reading position of the OSL filter.</figref><figref num="115">Dosimeter Thread Reference Shows the dosimeter thread in Figure 114, pulled by the OSL reader slider to the reading position of the OSL filter.</figref><figref num="116">It is a graph of the photon energy response of Al, CuT and CuP filters.</figref><figref num="117">It is a graph of the photon energy response of Al, CuT and CuP filters to Cs-137.</figref><figref num="118">It is a graph of the photon energy response of Al and CuP filters to CuT.</figref>

The accompanying drawings are incorporated herein by reference and constitute a portion of the specification, show a representative embodiment of the invention, and the general description above and the detailed description below. Together, it serves to explain the features of the present invention.

(Definition) If the definition of a term deviates from the commonly used meaning of the term, the applicant intends to use the definition provided below, unless otherwise indicated.

For the purposes of the present invention, directional terms such as "top", "bottom", "top", "bottom", "top", "bottom", "left", "right", "horizontal", "Vertical", "upward", "downward", etc. are used solely for convenience in describing various embodiments of the invention.

For the purposes of the present invention, when a numerical value or characteristic is derived by mathematical calculation or logical determination using a value, characteristic or other factor, the numerical value or characteristic is the fulfillment of a particular value, characteristic or state. Or based on other factors.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "incident angle" refers to the angle between the direction of the radiation curve and a straight line perpendicular to the detection plane.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "close proximity" refers to a distance comparable to the penetration range of charged particles in a particular medium.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "comparator OSL sensor" includes a reference filter material and is used to regulate the dose determined by the reference sensor at very low energies of X-rays or gamma rays. Say the sensor. In some embodiments of the invention, the reference filter material of the comparator OSL sensor is provided as a thin layer coating on the OSLM or as a thin film or disc adjacent to the OSLM in the reference OSL sensor OSL sensor. Can be In one embodiment of the invention, the reference filter material may be in the form of a disk mounted between OSLM and the base of a cylindrical cup-shaped filter on which OSLM is mounted. In one embodiment of the invention, the OSLM of the comparator OSL sensor may be mixed with a reference filter material, which is embedded or suspended in the reference filter material.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "converter material" refers to a converter material capable of converting non-ionizing neutron radiation into recoil or knockout protons, which can be detected by an OSL sensor or fluorescent nuclei. It may include a track detector (FNTD). An example of a "converter material" is high density polyethylene (HDPE). Another example of a "converter material" is polyethylene (PE). In some embodiments of the invention, the converter material may be applied as a thin layer coating on the OSLM or mounted as a thin film or disc adjacent to the OSLM of the neutron sensitive OSLM sensor. In one embodiment of the invention, the converter material may be in the form of a disk provided between the OSLM and the base of the cylindrical cup-shaped filter on which the OSLM is mounted. In one embodiment of the invention, the body of the dosimeter thread is made of converter material such as HDPE or PE, and the entire dosimeter thread is an OSLM or FNTD converter mounted on the dosimeter thread. Can act as a material. In another embodiment of the invention, the OSLM may be mixed with the converter material and the OSLM is embedded or dispersed in the converter material.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "cylindrical cup shape" refers to a filter having the general shape of an equirectangular cylinder with the top or bottom of the cylinder removed, i.e., the filter has a disc-shaped bottom or top. It has a cylindrical wall surface extending from them. The walls, top or bottom may be made of the same or different materials, depending on the angle and energy compensation response to the radiation desired by the dosimeter.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "dosimetry parameter" refers to a value or number determined from the processing of a fluorescence image or signal of an irradiated luminescent material and is directly associated with the amount of radiation absorbed by the detector.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "energy compensating material" is used as compared to OSLM exposed without compensating or filter material when placed between the OSLM and a gamma or x-ray source. , A material that modifies the response over a range of gamma energy or X-ray energy. Examples of energy compensating materials are copper and aluminum.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "fast neutron" is the conventional meaning of the term "fast neutron", meaning a neutron having an energy greater than 10 keV.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "filter" refers to any structure that is placed between a radiation sensing material (eg, OSLM) and a radiation source and that acts on the radiation that the radiation sensing material receives. For example, the filter may be an energy compensation filter, a converter, a reference filter, a conformal disk, and the like. In one embodiment of the invention, the energy compensation filter may be a cylindrical cup shaped filter. The filters of the present invention are primarily described below for use with photoexcited luminescence materials, although the filters of the present invention are of other types of radiation sensing materials (eg, thermoluminescence dosimetry (TLD)). It may be used together with the material). In one embodiment of the invention, where the OSL sensor is mounted on a cup-shaped filter, one or more filter material discs are placed between the OSLM disc and the base of the cylindrical cup-shaped filter. obtain. Each filter material disc constitutes a filter.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "filter material" is one of which the filter is composed of or Say multiple materials. For example, depending on the type of filter, the filter material may be an energy compensating material, a converter material, a reference filter material, a conformal material, and the like. Although the filter material of the present invention is mainly described below as being used in conjunction with a photoexcited luminescence material, the filter material of the present invention is a radiation sensing material of another type (eg, thermoluminescence dosimetry). (TLD) material) may be used together.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "heavy charged particle (HCP)" refers to a nucleus or ion having a mass equal to or greater than that of a proton. Some, but not limited to, examples of heavily charged particles include alpha particles, tritium ions, protons, antiprotons and the like.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "indirect ionizing radiation" refers to X-rays, gamma rays or neutrons.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "ionizing radiation" refers to a particle beam or electromagnetic wave capable of dissociating atoms into positively charged and loaded ion pairs. The present invention can be used to determine the dose of both direct and indirect ionizing radiation.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "irradiation" is the conventional meaning of the term "irradiation", ie, shorter than high energy charged particles such as electrons, protons, alpha particles, or visible light. It refers to exposure to electromagnetic irradiation rays of wavelength, such as gamma rays, X-rays, and ultraviolet light.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "low transmission radiation" refers to radiation from heavily charged particles with a transmission range of less than 100 microns (100μ) in a radiation sensing material or absorber. Examples of low-permeability radiation are: alpha particles, recoil protons, etc.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "maximum permeation range" or "permeation range" refers to the distance within the medium in which the direct ionized particles stop.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "moderated neutron" refers to a neutron produced by decelerating a fast neutron with a moderator containing hydrogen or deuterium, with an energy of about 0.025 eV to about 10 keV. Low-energy neutrons in the range contribute significantly.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "neutron-proton converter" is a hydrogen-containing material (eg, which can be used to convert non-ionizing neutron radiation into rebound or knockout protons (which can be detected by a radiation sensor). , High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)).

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "neutron sensitive OSL sensor" refers to an OSL sensor that detects neutrons. Neutron-sensitive OSL sensors can also detect other types of radiation, such as X-rays and gamma rays.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "OSL reader" refers to a device in an OSL sensor that excites an OSLM and emits a light wavelength that emits light. Under a particular excitation regimen (continuous excitation, wavelength and intensity readings, and pulse excitation using various pulse durations, pulse frequencies, pulse shapes and time between pulses), the emission intensity is approximately 0.01 mGy (1 mrem). ~ Proportional to radiation exposure in the range above about 100 Gy (10,000 rads).

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "OSL sensor" refers to a radiation sensor made by or including OSLM. The OSL sensor can be read using an OSL reader.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "passive detection" refers to a detection technique that detects radiation and / or integrates the absorbed dose to radiation without the need for active electronics and power supplies.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "penetrating photon radiation" arises from radioactive nuclear decay from space or, for example, due to the acceleration or deceleration of charged particles in an X-ray device or accelerator. Refers to short-wavelength electromagnetic radiation with energy equivalent to or higher than 10 keV.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "penetrating β-radiation" is equivalent to 10 keV or equivalent, equivalent to that resulting from radioactive nuclear decay from space or due to radiation-induced ionizing of atoms or due to acceleration of an electric field. An electron having the above energy.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "part" refers to any part of an object or material, which includes the entire object or material. For example, a transformant that covers a "part" of the luminescent material may cover part or all of one or more surfaces of the luminescent material.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "radiation metering" refers to the conventional meaning of the term "radiation metering", i.e., measuring the amount of radiation absorbed by the body of a material, object or individual.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "radiation sensing material" refers to a material used to sense radiation in a radiation sensor. Examples of radiation sensitive materials include optically excited luminescent materials for OSL sensors, thermoluminescent materials for thermoluminescent dosimetry (TLD) sensors, and the like.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "anti-jumping protons" refers to those protons generated by the collision of neutrons with a converter containing a hydrogen atom source (eg polyethylene or high density polyethylene).

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "reference filter material" is defined as having a radiation filtering and optical absorption of organic converter material to X-rays and gamma rays and a filtering effect on X-rays and gamma rays similar to the reflection effect. A non-hydrogen-containing carbon-based material having optical absorption and reflection properties of. For example, the "reference filter material" is polytetrafluoroethylene, which is a fluorinated plastic (commercially available under the trade name of Teflon (registered trademark) by DuPont), which is a high-density polyethylene (neutron-proton converter material). It has an X-ray and gamma-ray filtering effect similar to HDPE). Reference filter materials are used to act on both optical excitation and luminescence, and to enhance the effectiveness of the method according to one embodiment of the invention.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term "reference OSL sensor" is X by another OSL sensor identical to the reference OSL sensor, except that the reference filter material is included and the converter material is replaced by the reference filter material. An OSL sensor used to determine the effect of the converter material on ray and gamma ray detection. In some embodiments of the invention, the reference filter material of the reference OSL sensor can be applied as a thin coating on the OSLM or can be provided as a thin film or disk in close proximity to the OSLM in the reference OSL sensor. In one embodiment of the invention, the differential reference filter material can be in the form of a disc provided between the OSLM and the base of a cylindrical cup-shaped filter in which the OSLM is provided. For many radiometers, three OSL sensors arranged in a row are used, and the optimal directional characteristics of the radiometer are often improved when the reference OSL sensor is the central OSL sensor. In one embodiment of the invention, the OSLM of the reference OSL sensor can be mixed with the reference filter material, which is embedded or suspended in the reference filter material.

(Description) In current individual radiation monitoring devices, radiation sensors are typically incorporated into holders with one or more filters that vary in the amount, energy and type of radiation that can reach the sensor. These filters typically sandwich the sensor and provide accurate evaluation as the radiation enters the dosimeter from various angles of incidence. In order to analyze the sensor, the sensor must be removed from between the filter and the holder and physically provided to the processing system required to derive the quantitative properties exhibited by the sensor after exposure to radiation.

For example, analyzing a film dosimeter generally involves the following steps: 1. Extract a film packet from a holder sandwiched between filters; 2. Protect the film from light exposure and physical damage Peel off the protective package; 3. Develop the film with chemicals; 4. Place the film between the light source and the light detector, and what is the transmission of light through the film between the light source and the light detector The density of the film is measured by comparing it with a reference condition that is also not placed, and; 5. The density in one or more areas of the film that corresponds to the area where the film is sandwiched between filters is exposed to radiation. Associate.

Similarly, radiation sensors based on Thermoluminescence Dosimetry (TLD) are also taken from their position between the holder and the filter and are required for this sensor to emit luminescence and measure the amount of such luminescence. It must be provided in a very high temperature environment, the concentration of which is proportional to the radiation dose. The required temperature typically burns the holder and any identification label, thereby requiring the sensor to be removed from the TLD dosimeter. The most common metal filters also cause incandescent light and other interfering light at very high temperatures, eg 200-300 ° C. The disassembly process involves many mechanical steps that cause operational inefficiencies. Also, due to the many steps in the disassembly process for TLD dose meters, complex identification systems can connect one or more specific TDL sensors to holders that need to establish complete mass management. Required, thereby, the results of radiation dose analysis can be associated with a particular person or location exposed to radiation. A series of steps to disassemble the TLD dosimeter also introduces the risk of sensor damage or loss to the processing instrument while moving the sensor, and when such a sensor can be repaired for reuse. Inaccurate reconstruction of dosimeters will also be introduced.

In contrast, radiation sensors based on photomultiplier luminescence dosimeters, OSL sensors, require only an optical path so that the excitation light source illuminates the OSL sensor and the resulting radiation-induced luminescence is the same or alternative optical path. Through it, it can be returned to an optical detector such as a photomultiplier tube that quantifies the amount of luminescence light. In one embodiment, the invention uses an optical path such that an outer beam of light enters the interior of the holder, illuminates each OSL sensor, and the luminescence light exits the holder along the same optical path. It can be done and there is no need to remove the sensor from its normal position with respect to any filter or conversion material. The optical path can be either an optical fiber through which light can travel or a continuous air channel.

For more information on OSL materials and systems, see US Pat. No. 5,731,590 issued to Miller; US Pat. No. 6,846,434 issued to Akselrod; US Pat. No. 6,198,108 issued to Schweitzer et al.; Yoder U.S. Pat. No. 6,127,685 issued in; see U.S. Patent Application No. 10 / 768,094 filed by Akselrod et al .; all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Photoexcited Luminescence Dosimetry, Lars Botter Jensen et al., Elesevier, 2003; Klemic, G., Bailey, P., Miller, K., Montetti, M., External Radiation Dosimetry in the Aftermath of Radiation Terrorist Incidents, Rad. Prot. Dosim, printing; Akselrod, MS, Kortov, VS and Gorelova, EA, Al₂O₃: C Preparation and Properties, Radiat Prot. Dosim, 1993, Vol. 47, pp. 159-164; and Akselrod, MS, Lucas, A.C, Polf, JC, McKeever, SWS, Al₂O₃See also Photoexcitation Luminescence of: C, Radiation Measurements, 1998, Vol. 29, No. (3-4), pp. 391-339. All of these are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Passive sensors such as film, TLD or OSL sensors as described above do not require any power and store and store the dose within the molecular structure of the sensor. This property makes passive sensors ideal for situations where the risk of power failure is unacceptable. A crystal and radiation scintillation sensor that can be photoexcited are connected to the end of a fiber optical cable. Thus, the sensors can be attached to the measuring instrument without removing the sensors from their location in the radiation region. The sensor is integrally sealed at the end of the optical fiber to prevent stray light from interfering with the measurement. The optical fiber connects to the optical measuring instrument via a mechanical connector that aligns the fiber with the optical path created in the instrument. Since one sensor is attached to one fiber, a radiometer that requires many sensors must have many fiber connectors that must be individually coupled to the photon system in the instrument. The physical size of the connector and the need to cap the free end when not joined to the measuring instrument make dosimeters with a large number of fiber leads impractical and inconvenient for the carrier.

In one embodiment of the invention, the design of the radiometer allows the OSL sensor to be surrounded by the dosimeter being analyzed until this OSL sensor is read. Radiometers also provide a means of protecting the OSL sensor and optical path from dust or other substances that can alter or affect the amount of excitation and luminescence light that can reciprocate the OSL sensor and analyzer (dosimeter reader). .. The above design allows the OSL sensor to be permanently threaded. Thus, the sensor can be carried by the thread to the excitation light source and the luminescence collector without separating the OSL sensor from the thread. This aids in mass management as the peculiarities of the dosimeter thread and OSL sensor allow the same identification label or tag to be applied to all parts. The design also reduces the number of parts and mechanical complexity with the means to open the dosimeter so that the sensor can be retrieved for analysis. The thread also includes a filter, which preserves the positional placement of all important elements of the dosimeter and does not disassemble for analysis.

In one embodiment, the invention eliminates many physical steps, thereby improving productivity and allowing simpler automatic operation of large numbers or dosimeters. The above design makes the analysis of photoexcited luminescence radiation sensors a very fast analysis method. It allows for better implementation of very fast excitation and luminescence processes and provides greater productivity in terms of units analyzed per unit of time. Radiation sensors based on the measurement of electrical signals such as currents, voltages or resistances that change as a result of radiation exposure are measurements such as panometers, voltmeters or pulse counters via wires or other types of conductive paths. Can be connected to an instrument. Therefore, the sensor can be permanently packaged within the device worn by the user. Such devices generally require a power source that establishes the voltage gradient required to attract the ionization produced by radiation within the sensor to the electrodes or collectors in the solid state. These device types are generally classified as active in that they can provide an instantaneous indication of radiation exposure rate. If memory capability is provided, the active device may integrate velocity data to provide an estimate of the accumulated dose.

One of the most difficult tasks of radiation metering is to distinguish between doses produced by different radiations, especially neutrons. Therefore, neutrons need to be converted into direct ionized radiation such as alpha particles, energy protons, etc. and detected by such crystals. For fast neutron dosimeters, recoil protons from hydrogen-rich plastics, such as high-density polyethylene, are preferred because they resemble the interaction with water that occurs in the body. These neutron converters may be combined, attached, or otherwise contacted with the luminescence material, mixed or merged with the luminescence material, or part of or integrated with the luminescence material. Good. Alpha and beta particles and protons generated from radionuclides and acceleration facilities, like cosmic ray heavy-charged particles, usually do not require any conversion.

In one embodiment of the invention, each OSL sensor comprises an assembly consisting of one or more cylindrical cups that can reach the OSL material (OSLM) and act as an energy compensating filter that alters energy or gamma and X-rays. Including. The cup can be made from one material or can have different material tops and sides depending on the directional characteristics desired for the dosimeter. Top and wall thicknesses can vary from each other depending on the directional characteristics desired for the dosimeter. The shape of the walls and top of the cup need not be flat or constant and can be curved and varying in thickness depending on the desired directional characteristics. Cups can be designed with upper and lower housings, which also act as energy compensation filters.

In one embodiment of the invention, the radiometer can be worn in a watch-like fashion. For such a dosimeter, the curvature constructed in the upper housing combined with the right cylinder cup, this dosimeter is attached on the wrist, as if the dosimeter was attached on the body, and Allows you to assess the dose to the body.

In one embodiment of the invention, the lower housing comprises a flat energy compensating filter, either as a disc that matches the mouth of the cup or as a plate that extends the entire surface of the mouth of the cup. The metal sequence used in the cups provides optimal energy shaping as the lower atomic number elements remove the photoelectrons created in the higher atomic number elements by lower energy X-rays. Photoelectrons give undesired reactions in OSLM. The cup can be press-fitted, held in place on the thread by glue, or properly molded so that the thread surrounds the cup.

When many cups are used in one sensor, they are held together via crimping, press fitting or glue. In many embodiments of the invention, two or less cups may be used, one contained in the other. This keeps the overall height, cost and assembly at practical value.

There is a conversion filter in the cup that converts indirect ionizing radiation into direct ionizing particles, electrons from predominantly gamma and X-rays, and anti-jump protons for neutrons. In addition, the converter creates reflection conditions that allow the excitation light passing through the OSLM to be reflected by the OSLM, thereby gaining a more effective use of the excitation light. Similarly, the converter returns the luminescence light that travels inward into the cup back to the cup mouth and reflects it back to the light pipe of the photoengine in the dosimeter reader.

In one embodiment of the neutron-sensitive OSL sensor of the present invention, the thickness of the HDPE converter that converts neutrons to anti-protons and gamma-rays / X-rays to electrons is 1 mm, which produces the maximum number of anti-protons and electrons. Optimized with. Another slice of HDPE may be added to provide better contact between OSLM and HDPE.

In one embodiment of the invention, the thickness of PTFE used in the reference OSL sensor and the comparator OSL sensor is such that it converts gamma rays / X-rays into a similar number of electrons. In this case, its thickness is also 1 mm. The thickness tolerance of both converters can be ± 0.1 mm.

The converter and filter can be held inside the cup by either adhesive, press fit or a holding ring that also holds the OSLM in contact with the converter. The retaining ring can be a wire with a diameter of 0.6 mm that completely wraps around the inner diameter of the inner cup. The retention ring defines the light output region of the excitation light that illuminates the OSLM.

The converters and filters described below and shown in the drawings are flat in other embodiments, but the converters may be parabolic, which enhances light reflection to the light pipe but is costly.

The combined structure of the energy compensation filter cup and the radiation conversion filter, when installed in the thread, is all at the same height in the thread and therefore at the same distance from the exit of the light pipe of the optical engine. It is a thing.

Since the reflection and light absorption characteristics of HDPE and PTFE are slightly different, each sensor can be individually calibrated. This also allows the visual identification of the above sensors required for accurate assembly of the dosimeter.

The particle size of the aluminum oxide particles in OSLM according to one embodiment of the invention can be selected based on the range of recoil protons in the aluminum oxide. Based on Monte Carlo simulations and experimental confirmation tests, this particle size is between 30 and 40 microns with respect to the fast neutron environment most relevant for radiation protective dosimetry. Once the anti-protons deposit their energy in the aluminum oxide particles, no larger size can increase the proton response, but the electrons have a larger range, which increases the gamma / X-ray response. This reduces the neutron: gamma / X-ray signal ratio. Conversely, smaller particles cannot completely capture the recoil proton energy, which also reduces the neutron: gamma / X-ray signal ratio.

The coating of the aluminum oxide particles on the clear film may be done with a binder having minimal hydrogen, in which case the reference sensor response is gamma and X-ray only.

In one embodiment of the invention, a minimal binder coating can be used on top of the particles so that the recoil protons do not interfere with depositing their energy in aluminum oxide.

In one embodiment of the invention, the aluminum oxide coated film is transparent to blue or green light and can have a thickness between 0.05 and 0.15 mm.

In one embodiment of the invention, the OSL sensor is mounted in a dosimeter thread that slides in contact with a plate in the OSL reader to which the photooptical engine of the invention is mounted. The dosimeter thread, combined with the OSL sensor, holds the OSLM material in each of the OSL sensors at a distance from the exit of the optical light pipe of the OSL reader, ensuring uniform excitation and recovery of luminescence light. In one embodiment of the invention, the end side of the dosimeter thread is curved and the circular optical light pipe is completely blocked when the OSL sensor mounted closest to the curved end side is read. Guarantee.

In one embodiment of the invention, the dosimeter thread equipped with the OSL sensor can be made of PE or HDPE, the surface portion of which is equipped with the FNTD sensor on a recess in the underside of the thread. Allows neutrons to be used to convert anti-jump protons in the region.

In one embodiment of the invention, the center of each sensor follows a straight line parallel to the long axis of the thread, and slides, and then the OSL reader of the dosimeter reader that guides the sensor to the light pipe of the photo engine of the OSL reader. Can be aligned along the axis of movement in and out of the rail system.

In one embodiment of the invention, the dosimeter thread may be engraved with an identification number that is reproduced on the RFID tag.

In one embodiment of the invention, the dosimeter thread has a recess above the comparator OSL sensor with RFID tags installed. RFID tags are held in place by adhesive transfer tapes such as 300SLE adhesive or 3M adhesive tape with UV curable adhesive placed along the edge of the tag instead. The installation of RFID tags allows metal filters to not block the RF fields created by RFID tag readers, which allows accurate reading and writing on RFID tags.

In one embodiment of the invention, the OSL sensor is mounted within the opening of the dosimeter thread, each with its own ledge located at the height of the OSL sensor. The combination of these ledges with a cylindrical cup-shaped filter is also designed to maintain OSLM within each OSL sensor at the same height.

In one embodiment of the invention, in addition to the three OSL sensors described above, the dosimeter may also include an optical nuclei track detector (FNTD) mounted within the dosimeter thread. FNTD offers an alternative method of dosimetry under different analytical conditions. A suitable fluorescent nucleus track detector is described in US Patent Application No. 12 / 258,035 filed by Akselrod et al. On October 24, 2008 under the name "Luminescence Solid Dosimetry of Mixed Radiation". The entire content and disclosure is incorporated herein by reference.

In some embodiments of the invention, in addition to the three OSL sensors described above, or in place of one of the OSL sensors described above, the dosimeter thread is a second, unlike the OSLM in other OSL sensors. It may be equipped with an OSL sensor with a type of OSLM.

In one embodiment of the invention, the underside of the dosimeter thread may include a recess for accommodating an FNTD (fluorescent nucleus track detector) or polyallyl dicarbonate plastic (PADC sold under trade name CR-39). The dose from neutrons is evaluated sequentially. There are two wells in the recess where a piece of PTFE and a piece of LiF or Li-loaded plastic are installed. These are aligned with the upper surface of the recesses that make up the uniform surface on which the FNTD or PADC is installed. They are held in place, either by press fitting or with an adhesive. PTFE acts as a reference converter in a manner similar to its role with OSL sensors. The HDPE surface created by the threads acts as a neutron converter, similar to the way HDPE discs can be used as converter material discs for neutron sensitive OSLs. The lithium converter preferentially converts thermal and slow energy neutrons from the Li-6 (n, α) H-3 reaction to rebound alpha particles and tritium ions. Both the FNTD and PADC are held in place by small tabs that hook over the edge of the sensor. The FNTD or PADC is engraved with an ID number that matches the thread and RFID tag.

In one embodiment of the invention, the long side of the dosimeter thread has a protruding rail that is inserted into the corresponding slot at the lower housing. The rails are chamfered at the edges, allowing easy movement in and out of the lower housing, providing space for small amounts of dust and debris to accumulate without interfering with sliding movements.

One rail has a semi-circular notch that matches the center of each of the sensors. These allow the photodiode to sense when the thread is in the correct position for analysis with the OSL reader. The exact location allows the excitation light to completely illuminate the area of OSLM within the sensor.

The trailing edge of the thread has a semi-circular edge that provides extra light protection when reading the third sensor of the OSL reader. The circular edge provides an additional extension of the thread beyond the edge of the light pipe, thereby preventing stray light from entering the light pipe from the trailing edge of the thread in and out of the OSL. Some embodiments may omit this feature.

The front edge has a U-shaped detent and tongue on a slider that pulls the dosimeter thread inside and outside the OSL reader housing, engaging the tongue and U-shaped detent, respectively.

The opening above the sensor allows visual and electronic verification of the correct placement of the sensor with automatic assembly equipment. Electrical contacts are made to ensure accurate position, and color sensors can be used to ensure that the sensor's filter is copper instead of aluminum, or vice versa.

The upper housing is circular, but may have a molded surface to provide visual identification as to where the dosimeter should be attached (eg, a wrist circle, a hexagonal surface for attachment to the body).

The upper housing may have opposed loops of slots into which the straps of the belt can be inserted for attachment on the wrist or other body parts. One loop can be omitted and an attachment clip to the garment, such as an identification badge, is inserted through the slot.

The housing may have an embossed or engraved product identification or model number.

The housing may have an alignment symbol to help position the dosimeter properly on the dosimeter drawer of the dosimeter reader.

The housing can have curved arrows pointing in the direction of rotation and disengage the threads that hold the upper and lower housings together.

The housing may be composed of polyoxymethylene (Dupont's POM trade name Delrin®), polycarbonate (Lexan), acetylbutylstyrene (ABS) or other suitable plastic material.

The housing may have a flat internal surface at an angle of 15-25 degrees from the bottom plane of the upper housing just below the threads, which integrates with the sealing material located in the lower housing to provide a waterproof seal.

The upper housing can be connected and a 90 ° counterclockwise rotation separates the housing from the lower housing and separates these two parts from each other.

In one embodiment, the invention provides a radiometer with three OSL sensors: (1) neutron-sensitive OSL sensors that sense gamma, X-ray and neutron radiation, (2) X-ray and gamma radiation. A reference sensor that only senses, and (3) a comparator OSL sensor for the reference sensor. The neutron-sensitive OSL sensor comprises an OSLM mounted on an internal filter made of a first energy compensating material such as aluminum. The inner filter is similarly attached to an outer filter made of a second energy compensating material such as copper. Between the internal compensation filter and the OSLM is a converter material such as high density polyethylene that converts neutrons into recoil protons that can be sensed by a neutron sensitive OSL sensor. The reference OSL sensor replaces the converter material installed in the neutron sensitive OSL sensor with a reference filter material such as polytetrafluoroethylene, which is a thin disk on the OSLM, thin between the internal compensation filter and the OSLM. Identical except that it is installed either as a layer or as a thin coating. Comparator OSL sensor is identical except that it does not have an outer filter for the reference OSL sensor.

In one embodiment, a neutron-sensitive OSL sensor, a reference OSL sensor and a comparator OSL sensor can be mounted on the dosimeter thread, which slides out of the radiometer, and three OSL sensors make the OSL reader. Read using. Can be attached to the dosimeter thread. The dosimeter thread design allows three OSL sensors to read the same side from the exposed side of each OSL sensor without a filter covering the OSLM of the OSL sensor. In the embodiment shown below, three OSL sensors are provided in the dosimeter, in the order of (1) neutron sensitive OSL sensor, (2) reference OSL sensor, and (3) comparator OSL sensor. The OSL sensor can be attached to the dosimeter thread in any order.

In one embodiment of the invention, the OSLM used in the OSL sensor is a specialized carbon-doped aluminum oxide (Al) manufactured by Landauer Inc. (Glenwood, I11.).₂O₃: C) Material, and similar in trade name to those marketed on LUXEL + and INLIGHT dosimeters. OSLM is a specially formulated exclusive powdered Al₂O₃Consists of: C. For use with the OSL sensor of the present invention, Al₂O₃: C material can be in the form of disc-shaped pellets.

Al on each of the three OSL sensors₂O₃: C Material exposure to ionizing radiation emits electrons, which are trapped in defects in the material's crystal structure. When excited by 520 ± 10 nm wavelength light (ie green), electrons are emitted from the trap. As they return to the ground state, 420 ± 10 nm wavelength light (ie, blue) is emitted. It should be noted that other light wavelengths may be used, just as the pulse excitation system is used when reading the OSL sensor of the present invention.

The dose of gamma and X-ray radiation received by the dosimeter and the solid with the dosimeter can be determined from the synchrotron radiation from the second or reference OSL sensor, and based on the results of reading the third comparator OSL sensor. Can be fixed. The radiation dose of neutron radiation is obtained by subtracting the radiation dose value from the reading of the first OSL sensor from the radiation dose value from the reading of the second OSL sensor, and multiplying it by a calibrator suitable for the expected neutron energy spectrum. Can be determined by.

In one embodiment of the invention, the dosimeter or dosimeter portion (eg, dosimeter thread) comprises an RFID tag. The RFID tag features a radio frequency (RF) antenna that allows the RFID tag to communicate with the RFID tag reader's RF antenna, allowing the RFID tag reader to read information / data from the RFID tag, and the RFID tag. Allows readers to store information on RFID tags. In one embodiment of the invention, the RFID tag comprises a non-volatile data storage device such as a flash memory that allows the RFID tag to store information about the radiometer and the carrier of the radiometer. Allows any reader to read from the radiometer without having to access the database to retrieve the data needed to calculate the dose. When the RFID tag is part of the dosimeter thread, the RFID tag can be read while the thread is inside the dosimeter. The dosimeter does not need to be disassembled and the dosimeter thread does not need to be ejected to read and / or write data from the RFID tag. RFID tags can be read when the dosimeter thread is in the reading position for one of the dosimeter thread's OSL sensors or in a separate reading position for the RFID tag.

Although RFID tags of the present invention are described for use with specific radiometers in the embodiments of the invention described below, RFID tags are also used with other types of radiometers. obtain. For example, RFID tags are Landauer under the trade name InLight . It can also be used with badge-type, case-type and slide-type radiometers manufactured and sold by Inc.,. RFID tags can also be used with radiometers that use a variety of dosimeter materials and / or dosimeter reading methods and were named Miller in 1994 as "Methods for Increased Sensitivity of Radiation Detection and Measurement". U.S. Pat. No. 5,354,997 issued on October 11, 1996, U.S. Pat. No. 5,567,948, "Synthetic material dosimeter" issued to Miller under the name "Synthetic material dosimeter". US Pat. No. 5,569,927 issued to Miller on October 29, 1996 under the name, and US Patent issued to Miller on March 24, 1998 under the name "Metal Oxide Dose Meter Methods and Materials". Includes dose meter materials and / or dose meter reading methods described in No. 5,731,590 (the prior contents and disclosures of these patents are incorporated herein by reference).

The RFID tag can store the results of the last few reads, which allows it to retrieve the dose history received by the carrier. RFID tags retain identification, date and time data and establish collective control over who was assigned the dosimeter and when the dosimeter operation was performed. In one embodiment of the invention, the RFID tag may convey the following information: dosimeter model identification information, dosimeter serial number and individual identification number assigned to the dosimeter, calibration data for each OSL sensor, Date and time information needed to estimate background radiation build-up, total radiation and dose from gamma rays and dose from neutrons, date and time information on the assignment of dosimeters to individuals, when dosimeters are read Reader quality control data representing the usability of the dosimeter reader during dosimeter analysis, including date and time information, as well as a unique leader identification number.

The RFID tags of the present invention are read and written by either a dosimeter reader or an independent RFID tag reader connected to a PC or other data input device for the use of appropriate RFID antennas and decryption codes. It can be. When the dosimeter is returned from the field to the laboratory, the dose results are read separately, verifying the latest history of the field results and the dosimeter results obtained in the surveyed field, and certified radiation for archiving. It can be considered to establish a dosimeter record.

In one embodiment of the invention, RFID tags allow the dosimeter to be analyzed in a remote area without access to a database containing the information needed for accurate analysis of the dosimeter. RFID tags have a history of dosimeter analysis and dose reconstruction can be performed. RFID tags have a limited reading range to avoid dosimeter detection during covered operations.

In one embodiment, the dosimeter reader may communicate with a database separate from the dosimeter reader. The dosimeter reader can communicate with another database in a variety of ways, including wireless communication, fiber optic communication, wire communication, internet communication, telephone line communication, and so on.

In some embodiments of the invention, the dosimeter may be given and attached to the individual before the dosimeter is assigned to the individual in the database. In such cases, the database may be updated at a later date with the name of the individual to which the dosimeter is assigned, and other identifications such as social security number, dog tag number, and so on. The database can be updated even the first time the dosimeter is read by the dosimeter reader.

In one embodiment, the dosimeter reader of the present invention is battery operated and can be operated during analysis. The dosimeter reader displays the analysis results, performs a pulsed photoexcited luminescence (POSL) process, saves the analysis results, writes the dosimeter analysis results to a dosimeter RFID chip, and downloads like a USB plug. It has a mechanism, whereby data can be downloaded to a remote database or PC, and reader settings can be uploaded to the dosimeter reader. The dosimeter reader can be lightweight and / or waterproof and / or buoyant. The dosimeter reader can be read at various angles from the horizon and can be equipped with a display and buttons for soaking.

In one embodiment of the invention, the dosimeter reader comprises excitation light monitoring and ambient light monitoring. The excitation light monitoring can be conducted by a photodiode to which a portion of the excitation light is sent. The photodiode response is monitored and compared to the reference values obtained for the exact excitation light level. Ambient light monitoring can be guided by performing a luminescence counting routine without applying excitation light to the OSL sensor. The dosimeter of the present invention may employ pulses that vary in duration and frequency. The dosimeter reader can also check the luminescence intensity to choose an alternative POSL scheme. By performing the analysis process during a small portion of the standard analysis time and comparing the results with the reference values, a photoluminescence excitation intensity that selects an alternative POSL scheme can be used, which is produced by the excitation light. Instructs the reader to manipulate the excitation light at a given frequency and pulse period to increase or decrease the luminescent light, thereby optimizing the light for light sensing systems such as photoelectron multipliers. Maintain quantity. Luminescence intensity measurements can be very short, i.e. less than about 10% of the time required to read the OSL sensor.

FIGS. 1 and 2 show a radiometer 102 according to one embodiment of the invention, comprising an upper housing 104 and a lower housing 106 attached to the upper housing 1. FIG. 1 shows the bottom 112 of the dosimeter 102, and FIG. 2 shows the top 114 of the dosimeter 102. The upper housing 104 may include two substantially trapezoidal loops 122 and 124 located on opposite sides 126 and 128 of the circular body 120 and the circular body 120, respectively. A dashed line 130 is shown that runs vertically through the center of loops 122 and 124. The lower housing 106 has three circular recesses 142, 144 and 146 between the opposing sides 148 and 150 of the lower housing 106. A dashed line 152 drawn through the center of the circular recesses 142, 144 and 146 is shown.

2 and 3 show the upper housing top 202 and the upper housing bottom 204 of the upper housing 104. The upper housing upper part 202 corresponds to the upper part 114 of the radiometer 102. Loops 122 and 124 have openings 216 and 218, through which a strap member (hidden) can be screwed in and a radiometer 102 can be attached on the individual's wrist. The upper housing upper portion 202 has a flat circular upper surface 220 and may be equipped with a curved arrow 222 and a circular alignment symbol 224. Also, an etched alphanumeric identification stamp 232 may be provided on the upper housing 104. The circular inner wall 234 of the upper housing bottom 204 comprises an internal thread 236. The inner wall 234 surrounds the circular recess 242 with a flat bottom 244.

The identification mark can identify an individual wearing a radiometer and / or a radiometer.

The body of the upper housing in Figures 2 and 3 is made of polyoxymethylene (POM), sold by DuPont under the trade name Delrin®. However, in other embodiments, the body of the upper housing may be made of polycarbonate, polyethylene, styrene or other durable plastic material.

4 and 5 show the lower housing top 400 and the lower housing bottom 402 of the lower housing 106. The lower housing 106 has a circular base 404 and an upper structure 406. The upper structure 406 has a circular outer wall 408 with threads 410 around it at regular intervals. The lower housing top 400 has a nearly punched card-shaped thread recess 412 with two opposing lateral sides 414 and 416, an end wall 418 perpendicular to the lateral sides 414 and 416, an inclined square wall 420 and an open end 422. Be prepared. The lateral side surface 414 includes an indent 424. The lateral side 416 comprises an indent 426. The lateral side surface 414 is provided with a groove 432 and an upper lip 434 that move along the length of the lateral side surface 414. The lateral side surface 416 comprises a groove 436 and an upper lip 438 that move along the length of the lateral side surface 416. The lower housing upper structure 406 comprises an upper flat surface 442 and a lower flat surface 444. With and without the upper flat surface 442 within the thread recess 412 and the exposed edge area 448, the lower flat surface 444 is exposed. The lower housing bottom 402 has a flat bottom surface 452, circular recesses 142, 144 and 146, a C-shaped groove 454 and two diamond-shaped recesses 456 and 458. Opposing ends 462 and 464 of the C-shaped groove 454 are separated by a gap 466. The circular copper filter disks 472 and 474, respectively, are inserted into the circular recesses 142 and 144 and act as energy compensation filters. Copper filter discs 472 and 474 are held in place within the circular recesses 142 and 144 by press fitting, in-place molding or the use of adhesives.

The body of the lower housing in Figures 4 and 5 is made of polyoxymethylene (POM), sold by DuPont under the trade name Delrin®. However, in other embodiments, the body of the lower housing may be made of polycarbonate, polyethylene, styrene or other durable plastic material.

6 and 7 show a dosimeter thread 600 according to one embodiment of the invention, comprising a thread body 602, a thread top surface 604 facing each other and a thread bottom surface 606. The thread body 602 comprises three openings 608, 610 and 612. The openings 608, 610 and 612 include top portions 614, 616 and 618, respectively and bottom portions 620, 622 and 624, respectively. The neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 626, reference OSL sensor 628 and comparator OSL sensor 630 are mounted within openings 608, 610 and 612, respectively, and thread the neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 626, reference OSL sensor 628 and comparator OSL sensor 630. It is held in place by press-fitting it into the main body 602. The top portions 614, 616 and 618 are smaller than the bottom portions 620, 622 and 624 of the respective openings 608, 610 and 612, respectively, so that the neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 626, reference OSL sensor 628 and comparator OSL sensor 630 Adjacent to the respective circular ledges (not visible in FIGS. 6 and 7) formed in the openings 608, 610 and 612 by the upper portions 614, 616 and 618, respectively.

While the OSL sensor in the embodiments of the present invention of FIGS. 6 and 7 is held in the thread by press fitting, in other embodiments the OSL sensor can be held in place with an adhesive. In other embodiments, the OSL sensor may be molded in place by plastic threads so that each OSL sensor is fully captured.

The neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 626 includes a disk-shaped pellet of OSLM632, a converter material disk (not visible in FIGS. 6 and 7), a cylindrical cup-shaped inner filter 634 and a cylindrical cup-shaped outer filter 636. The OSLM632 and converter material discs are held in place within the inner filter 634 by a retention ring 637. The converter material disk is sandwiched between the OSLM 632 and the inner filter 634. The retention ring 637 is a spring-type retention ring and is held in place within the inner filter 634 by compression. When the retention ring 637 is compressed into the inner filter 634, the ends 638 and 639 of the retention ring 637 are adjacent to each other. The inner filter 634 is installed and held in the outer filter 636 by press fitting the inner filter 634 into the outer filter 636. The OSLM632 comprises the side to be filtered (not visible in FIGS. 6 and 7), i.e. the side of the OSLM632 filtered by the converter material disk, the inner filter 634 and the outer filter 636. The neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 626 comprises the exposure side 640 shown in FIG. 7, which allows the combined dose of X-ray, gamma and neutron radiation exposed to the OSLM632 to be read by the OSL reader. The retention ring 637 is mounted on the exposed side 640 of the OSLM 632. OSLM632 is Al₂O₃: Includes C material. The inner filter 634 is made of aluminum. The outer filter 636 is made of copper. The retention ring 637 is made of stainless steel. Converter material discs are thin discs made from high density polyethile.

The reference OSL sensor 628 comprises a disk-shaped pellet of OSLM642, a reference filter material disk (not visible in FIGS. 6 and 7), a cylindrical cup-shaped inner filter 644 and a cylindrical cup-shaped outer filter 646. The OSLM 642 and reference filter material discs are held in place within the inner filter 644 by a retention ring 647. The reference filter material disc is sandwiched between the OSLM 642 and the inner filter 644. The retention ring 647 is a spring-type retention ring and is held in place within the inner filter 644 by compression. When the retention ring 647 is compressed into the inner filter 644, the ends 648 and 649 of the retention ring 647 are adjacent to each other. The inner filter 644 is provided and held in the outer filter 646 by press-fitting the inner filter 644 into the outer filter 646. The OSLM642 has a filtered side (not visible in FIGS. 6 and 7), namely the side of the OSLM642 filtered by the reference filter material disk, the inner filter 644 and the outer filter 646. OSLM642 has an exposure aspect 650 that establishes the optical pathway shown in Figure 7, which allows the combined dose of X-rays and gamma rays exposed to OSLM642 to be read by an OSL reader. The retention ring 647 is mounted on the exposed side 650 of the OSLM 642. OSLM642 is Al₂O₃: Includes C material. The inner filter 644 is made of aluminum. The outer filter 646 is made of copper. The retention ring 647 is made of stainless steel. The reference filter material disc is a thin disc made of polytetrafluoroethylene.

The comparator OSL sensor 630 comprises a disk-shaped pellet of OSLM652, a reference filter material disk (not visible in FIGS. 6 and 7), and a cylindrical cup-shaped filter 654. The OSLM652 and reference material filter discs are held in place within the filter 654 by a retention ring 655. The reference filter material disc is sandwiched between the OSLM 652 and the filter 654. The retention ring 655 is a spring-type retention ring and is held in place within the inner filter 644 by compression. When the retention ring 655 is compressed into the filter 654, the ends 656 and 657 of the retention ring 655 are adjacent to each other. The OSLM652 comprises a filtered side (not visible in FIGS. 6 and 7), i.e. a reference filter material disk and a side of the OSLM652 filtered by the filter 654. The OSLM652 has an exposure aspect 658 shown in FIG. 7, which allows the combined dose of X-rays and gamma rays exposed to the OSLM652 to be read by an OSL reader. The retention ring 655 is mounted on the exposed side 658 of the OSLM 652. OSLM652 is Al₂O₃: Includes C material. The filter 654 is made of aluminum. The retention ring 655 is made of stainless steel. The reference filter material disc is a thin disc made of polytetrafluoroethylene.

The neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 626 and the reference OSL sensor 628 are the same, except that the polytetrafluoroethylene disk in the reference OSL sensor 628 is replaced with a high-density polyethylene disk in the neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 626. The comparator OSL sensor 630 is identical to the reference OSL sensor 628, except that the filter 654 is not mounted inside the outer filter. In the comparator OSL sensor 630, the filter 654 functions as an outer filter.

The neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 626, the reference OSL sensor 628 and the comparator OSL sensor 630 are similar to each other in that they have the same OSLM disk, the same cylindrical cup-shaped filter and the same holding ring. The neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 626, the reference OSL sensor 628 and the comparator OSL sensor 630 also include a disk of filter material sandwiched between the OSLM disk and the inner filter, respectively. This similarity in the components that make up each OSL sensor maintains consistent optical conditions for the reflection and scattering of excitation and luminescence light within the sensor.

A circular high frequency ID (RFID) tag 660 is provided in the approximately circular recess 659 in the thread top surface 604. The RFID tag 660 is held in place in the recess 659 by a 3M double-sided contact adhesive film. RFID tag 660 includes antenna 661 and memory chip 662. The thread body 602 comprises two parallel lateral sides 663 and 664, two parallel straight end sides 666 and 668, and two tilt angle sides 670 and 672. There is a region 673 between the neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 626 and the linear end-side 666 end. Rail 674 projects from lateral side surface 663. The lateral side 663 comprises a rail 674 along the length of the lateral side 663 above the lower half of the lateral side 663. The lateral side 664 comprises rails 676 along the length of the lateral side 664 above the lower half of the lateral side 664. The rail 676 projects from the lateral side surface 664. Lateral side 663s are provided with U-shaped detents and tongues 679 near the end side 668. Rail 674 includes three semi-circular notches 680, 682 and 684. The thread bottom surface 606 comprises a recess 686 with indents 688, 690, 692, 694 and 696. The thread top surface 604 comprises an alphanumeric identification stamp 698 that conforms to the alphanumeric identification stamp 232 on the upper housing 104.

In the embodiments of the invention described above and shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, a double-sided contact adhesive film is used to hold the RFID tag in place on the dosimeter thread, except for the RFID tag. It may be held in the dosimeter by the means of. For example, an RFID tag can be glued to a dosimeter thread using a UV curable adhesive placed along the outside of the RFID tag.

In one embodiment of the invention, when the OSL sensors 626, 628 and 630 are being sequentially read by the dosimeter reader, the positioning notches 680, 682 and 684 can be used, respectively, within the OSL reader. It can be used for proper positioning. A positioning notch 680 can be used, which can be used to properly position the neutron sensitive OSL sensor 626 within the dosimeter reader. A positioning notch 682 can be used, which can be used to properly position the reference OSL sensor 628 within the OSL reader. A positioning notch 684 can be used, which can be used to properly position the comparator OSL sensor 630 within the dosimeter reader.

In one embodiment of the invention, placing a positioning notch is used to align the OSL sensor with the optical path of the OSL reader so that excitation and luminescence light are consistently applied and captured. Can be When the dosimeter thread is moved into the OSL reader, the notch opens the optical path for the photooptic sensor and completes the electronics so that the dosimeter reader management system allows the OSL sensor to be on the OSL reader's photo engine. Know that it is accurately positioned and can be analyzed.

FIG. 8 shows a disassembled reference OSL sensor 628 with the inner filter 644 removed from the outer filter 646. FIG. 9 shows a reference OSL sensor 628 in an assembled state with the inner filter 644 installed inside the outer filter 646. The polytetrafluoroethylene disc sandwiched between the OSLM 642 and the inner filter 644 is not visible in Figures 8 and 9. Due to the light in the images of FIGS. 8 and 9, the retaining ring 647 is not readily visible in FIGS. 8 and 9.

In FIG. 8, the combination of OSLM642, polytetrafluoroethylene disk (not visible in FIG. 8), inner filter 644 and retention ring 647 also corresponds to the assembled state of the comparator OSL sensor 630.

FIG. 10 shows a dosimeter thread 600 sliding into the thread recess 412 of the lower housing 106. The rail 674 of the dosimeter thread 600 slides in the groove 432 below the upper lip 434 of the lower housing 106. Rail 676 of the dosimeter thread 600 slides in the groove 436 below the upper lip 438 of the lower housing 106.

FIG. 11 shows a dosimeter thread 602 completely slid into the thread recess 412, with the end side 666 of the dosimeter thread body 602 adjacent to the end wall 418 of the lower housing 106, and the tilt of the dosimeter thread 602. The corner side 670 is adjacent to the corner wall 420 of the lower housing 106, i.e., the dosimeter thread 602 has a shape that complementarily fits the thread recess 412. In the configuration shown in FIG. 11, the dosimeter thread 602 is considered to be "mounted" in the lower housing 106. In the configuration shown in FIG. 11, the copper filter disks 472 and 474 of the lower housing 106 are located directly below the neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 626 and the reference OSL sensor 628 of the dosimeter thread 602, respectively, and the circular shape of the lower housing 106. Each of the recesses 146 is located directly below the comparator OSL sensor 630 of the dosimeter thread 602.

There is no copper filter disc in the circular recess 146. This is because the comparator OSL sensor 630 can be used to adjust the dose determined by the reference OSL sensor with ultra-low energy of X-rays. Therefore, unlike the neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 626 and the reference OSL sensor 628, it is not desirable to have a filter mounted within the lower housing bottom 402 under the comparator OSL sensor 630.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, instead of using two copper filter discs, a rectangular filter plate may be provided within the rectangular plate recess within the thread recess of the lower housing. Similar to copper filter discs, a filter plate shield is installed between the neutron sensitive OSL sensor and the reference OSL sensor when the dosimeter thread slides completely into the thread recess. By providing the filter plate in a less exposed position within the lower housing, the filter plate is better protected than a copper filter disk that is permanently exposed on the bottom of the lower housing of the dosimeter.

The lower housing 106 is provided by screwing the lower housing 106 into the upper housing 104, into which the dosimeter thread 602 is slid / provided and uses the threads 236 of the upper housing 104 and the threads 410 of the lower housing 106. It can be mounted on the upper housing 104. When the alignment line 130 of the upper housing 104 is parallel to the line 152 of the lower housing 106, the lower housing 106 is held in place within the upper housing 104. The upper housing 104 can be separated from the lower housing 106 by grabbing loops 122 and 124 and rotating the upper housing 90 ° counterclockwise, with the upper housing 104 and lower housing oriented as shown in FIG. .. In the configuration shown in FIG. 1, the alignment line 130 is perpendicular to the alignment line 152, and the upper housing 104 is in a detached position with respect to the lower housing 106.

Figures 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16 show the upper housing 1200 of the radiometer according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figures 12 and 14 show the upper housing upper part 1202. Figures 13 and 15 show the bottom of the upper housing 1204. The upper housing 1200 comprises two nearly trapezoidal loops 1212 and 1214 mounted on opposite side surfaces 1216 and 1218 of the circular body 1206 and the circular body 1206, respectively. Loops 1212 and 1214 are provided with openings 1226 and 1228, respectively, through which a strap member (not shown) can be screwed in and a dosimeter can be worn on the individual's wrist. The upper housing upper 1202 has a circular portion 1230 and a flat circular upper surface 1232, and comprises a curved arrow 1242, a circular alignment symbol 1244 and a shallow rounded rectangular recess 1246. In one embodiment of the invention, a label with an alphanumeric identification mark (not shown) can be glued to the upper housing upper part 1202 within a shallow rounded rectangular recess 1246. In another embodiment of the invention, an alphanumeric identification mark (not shown) can be engraved in the shallow rounded rectangular recess 1246. The circular inner wall 1254 of the upper housing bottom 1204 comprises an internal thread 1256. The inner wall 1254 surrounds the circular recess 1262 with a flat bottom 1264.

Figures 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24 show the lower housing 1700 of the radiometer according to one embodiment of the present invention. 17 and 19 show the lower housing upper 1702. Figures 18 and 20 show the bottom of the lower housing 1704. The lower housing 1700 has a circular disc shaped platform 1708 with a circular lower housing base, a circular lower inner wall 1710 with threads 1712 spaced around it. Platform 1708 comprises a flat top surface with a rectangular filter plate recess 1716. A thin rectangular energy compensating filter plate (not shown in FIGS. 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24) can be provided within the filter plate recess 1716. At the top of the superstructure 1714 are two superstructures 1718 and 1720, which have the respective superstructures 1722 and 1724. Superstructure 1718 comprises a curved outer rail 1726. Superstructures 1718 and 1720 define a threaded recess 1728 with two opposing lateral sides 1730 and 1732, an end wall 1734, an inclined square wall 1736 and an open end 1738. The end wall 1734 comprises a curved wall portion 1740. Lateral side 1730s are equipped with indentation 1744. Lateral side 1732 comprises indentation 1746. The lateral side surface 1730 includes a groove 1752 and an upper lip 1754 along the length of the lateral side surface 1730. The lateral side 1732 comprises a groove 1756 and an upper lip 1758 along the length of the lateral side 1732. The lower housing bottom 1704 has a flat bottom surface 1772, a C-shaped groove 1774, two diamond recesses 1776 and 1778, and an etched arrow 1780. The opposing ends 1782 and 1784 of the C-shaped groove 1774 are separated by a gap 1786. The diamond recess 1776 comprises a lip 1790 and a devaluation 1792 at the outer end 1794 of the diamond recess 1776. Rhombus recess 1 The 778 comprises a lip 1796 and a devaluation 1798 at the outer edge 1778 of the recess. The filter plate recess 1716 is installed in the thread recess 1728, and the filter plate (not shown) provided in the filter plate recess 1716 is a dosimeter thread (FIGS. 17, 18, 19, (Not shown in 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24), provides a shield against neutron-sensitive OSL sensors and reference OSL sensors.

Figures 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32 and 33 show the dosimeter thread body 2502 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figures 25 and 27 show the thread body top surface 2504 of the dosimeter thread body 2502. Figures 26 and 28 show the thread body bottom surface 2506 of the dosimeter thread body 2502. The top surface of the thread body 2504 and the bottom surface of the thread body face each other. The dosimeter thread body 2502 comprises three openings 2510, 2512 and 2514. The openings 2510, 2512 and 2514 include the respective top portions 2518, 2520 and 2522 and the respective bottom portions 2524, 2526 and 2528. The circular ledges 2540 and 2542 are formed within the openings 2510 and 2512 by the upper portions 2518 and 2520 because the upper portions 2518 and 2520 are smaller than the bottom portions 2524 and 2526 of the openings 2510 and 2512, respectively. Since the top portion 2522 is smaller than the bottom portion 2528 of the opening 2514, the circular ledge 2544 within the opening 2514 is formed by the top portion 2522. A circular RFID tag (not shown) can be attached to an almost circular recess 2556 within the upper surface 2504 of the thread body. The dosimeter thread body 2502 comprises two parallel lateral sides 2562 and 2564, a curved end side 2566, a substantially straight end side 2568, and two tilt angle sides 2570 and 2572. The lateral side 2562 comprises a rail 2574 along the length of the lateral side 2562 above the lower half of the lateral side 2562. Rail 2573 projects from lateral side 2562. Rail 2574 has a chamfered edge 2575. The lateral side 2564 comprises rails 2576 along the length of the lateral side 2564 above the lower half of the lateral side 2564. Rail 2576 projects laterally from side 2564. Rail 2576 has chamfered edges 2577. Lateral side The 2562 is equipped with a U-shaped detent 2578 and a tongue 2579 near the end side 2568. Rail 2574 comprises three semi-circular positioning notches 2580, 2582 and 2584. The bottom surface 2506 of the thread body includes a bottom surface recess 2586. The bottom surface recess 2586 comprises indents 2588, 2590, 2592, 2594 and 2596. The upper surface of the thread is provided with an alphanumeric stamp 2598. The FNTD (not shown) can be installed in the bottom surface recess 2586. Indents 2588, 2590, 2592, 2594 and 2596 in the bottom surface recess 2586 provide the FNTD in the bottom surface recess 2586 and assist in removing the FNTD from the bottom surface recess 2586.

The chamfering of the rail edge of the dosimeter thread provides a channel between the rail in the lower housing and the thread recess, allowing a small amount of dust and debris to accumulate inside and outside the thread recess without interfering with sliding movements. To do.

Figures 34 and 35 show a dosimeter thread 3402 with a dosimeter thread body 2502. In the dosimeter thread 3402, a neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 3410, a reference OSL sensor 3412 and a comparator OSL sensor 3414 are installed in openings 2510, 2512 and 2514 of the dosimeter body 3502, respectively, and an OSL sensor 3410, a reference OSL sensor. The 3412 and the comparator OSL sensor 3414 are held in place by press fitting into openings 2510, 2512 and 2514, respectively. The neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 3410, the reference OSL sensor 3412 and the comparator OSL sensor 3414 are adjacent to the circular ledges 2540, 2542 and 2544, respectively. The neutron sensitive OSL sensor 3410 is the OSL sensor closest to the curved end side 2566.

Since the OSL sensor 3410 is near the curved end side 2566, the curved end compared to the narrower region 673 between the neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 626 and the straight end side 666 of the dosimeter thread 600. The part side 2566 is curved to extend the area 3416 between the OSL sensor 3410 and the end side 2566, and when the neutron sensitive OSL sensor 3410 is read by the OSL reader, the circular optical light pipe of the OSL reader (figure). Ensure that (not shown in 34 and 35) is completely covered. There is sufficient distance between the end side 2568 and the OSL sensor 3414 to cover the optical light pipe of the OSL reader, and it is not important to bend the end side 2568.

The neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 3410 comprises a disk-shaped pellet of OSLM3422, a converter material disk 3424, a cylindrical cup-shaped inner filter 3426 and a cylindrical cup-shaped outer filter 3428. The OSLM3422 and converter material disk 3424 are held in place within the inner filter 3426 by the retention ring 3430. The converter material disk 3424 is sandwiched between the OSLM 3422 and the inner filter 3426. The retention ring 3430 is a spring-type retention ring and is held in place within the inner filter 3426 by compression. When compressed into the inner filter 3426, the ends 3432 and 3434 of the retention ring 3430 are adjacent to each other. The inner filter 3426 is installed in the outer filter 3428 and held in place by press-fitting the inner filter 3426 into the outer filter 3428. The OSLM3422 has a filtered side surface 3436, i.e., a side surface of the OSLM3422 filtered by a converter material disk, an inner filter 3426 and an outer filter 3428. The neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 3410 has an exposure aspect of 3436, which allows the combined dose of X-ray, gamma and neutron radiation exposed to OSLM3422 to be read by an OSL reader. The retention ring 3430 is mounted on the exposed side 3438 of OSLM3422.

The reference OSL sensor 3412 comprises a disk-shaped pellet of OSLM3442, a reference filter material disk 3444, a cylindrical cup-shaped inner filter 3446 and a cylindrical cup-shaped outer filter 3448. The OSLM3442 and reference filter material disk 3444 are held in place within the inner filter 3446 by the retention ring 3450. The reference filter material disk 3444 is sandwiched between the OSLM 3442 and the inner filter 3446. The retention ring 3450 is a spring-type retention ring and is held in place within the inner filter 3446 by compression. When compressed into the inner filter 3446, the ends 3452 and 3454 of the retention ring 3450 are adjacent to each other. The inner filter 3446 is installed and held in the outer filter 3448 by press-fitting the inner filter 3446 into the outer filter 3448. The OSLM3442 has a filtered side surface 3456, i.e. a side surface of the OSLM3442 filtered by a reference filter material disk 3444, an inner filter 3446 and an outer filter 3448. The reference OSL sensor 3412 has an exposed side 3458, which allows the combined dose of X-ray and gamma radiation exposed to the OSLM 3442 to be read by the OSL reader. The retention ring 3450 is mounted on the exposed side 3458 of OSLM3442.

The comparator OSL sensor 3414 comprises a disk-shaped pellet of OSLM3462, a reference filter material disk 3464, and a cylindrical cup-shaped filter 3466. The OSLM 3462 and reference filter material disc 3464 are held in place within the filter 3466 by the retention ring 3468. The reference filter material disk 3464 is sandwiched between the OSLM 3462 and the filter 3466. The retention ring 3468 is a spring-type retention ring and is held in place within the filter 3466 by compression. When the retention ring 3468 is compressed into the filter 3466, the ends 3470 and 3472 of the retention ring 3468 are adjacent to each other. The OSLM3462 comprises a filtered side surface 3474, a side surface of the OSLM3462 filtered by a reference filter material disk 3464, and a filter 3466. Comparator OSL sensor 3414 is equipped with an exposure side 3478, which allows the combined dose of X-ray and gamma radiation exposed to OSLM3462 to be read by an OSL reader. The retention ring 3468 is mounted on the exposed side 3478 of OSLM3462.

The neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 3410 is identical to the reference OSL sensor 3412, except that the converter material disk 3424 in the neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 3410 replaces the reference filter material disk 3444 of the reference OSL sensor 3412. The comparator OSL sensor 3414 is identical to the reference OSL sensor 3412, except that the filter 3466 is not installed inside the outer filter. In the comparator OSL sensor 3414, the filter 3466 functions as an outer filter.

In the dosimeter thread in Figure 34, OSLM, one of the OSL sensors, is a converter material covered on the filtered sides of OSLM that allows OSLM to act as an OSL sensor that senses gamma and neutron radiation. Has. The OSLM of the second OSL sensor has a filter reference material covered on the filtered sides of the OSL that allows the OSLM to function as an OSL sensor for gamma radiation.

In one embodiment of the invention, when the dosimeter thread 3402 is located below the OSL reader (not shown in FIGS. 34 and 35), the positioning notches 2584, 2582 and 2580 can be placed and the photooptical of the OSL reader. Place the OSL sensors 3414, 3412 and 3410 in sequence with respect to the engine (not shown in Figures 34 and 35) and the optical light pipe, respectively. A notch 2580 can be placed and used to properly place the neutron sensitive OSL sensor 3410 above the optical light pipe of the OSL reader. For positioning, properly place the reference OSL sensor 3412 above the optical light pipe of the OSL reader. The notch 2584 can be used to properly place the comparator OSL sensor 3414 above the optical light pipe of the OSL reader.

The dosimeter thread 3402 can be slid in and out of the thread recess 1728 of the lower housing 1700 in a manner similar to the way the dosimeter thread 600 slides in and out of the thread recess 412 of the lower housing 106. Rail 2574 of the dosimeter thread 3402 slides into the groove 1752 under the upper lip 1754 of the lower housing 1700. Rail 2576 of the dosimeter thread 3402 slides into the groove 1756 under the upper lip 1758 of the lower housing 1700. When fully slid into the dosimeter thread 3402, the curved end side 2566 is adjacent to the curved wall portion of the lower housing 1700. The etched arrow 1780 on the lower housing 1700 indicates the direction in which the dosimeter thread 3402 can slide out of the lower housing 1700.

A thin rectangular energy compensation filter (not shown in Figure 34) provided in the filter plate recess 1716 protects the neutron sensitive OSL 3410 and the reference OSL sensor 3412 from radiation as the dosimeter thread 3402 slides into the lower housing 1700. To do. And it is similar to how copper filter disks 472 and 474 protect the neutron sensitive OSL sensor 3410 and the reference OSL sensor 3412 respectively. In one embodiment, the thin rectangular energy compensating filter can be molded into the filter plate recess 1716. In one embodiment, the thin rectangular energy compensating filter plate can be made of copper.

The lower housing 1700 is fully slid / equipped with a dosimeter thread 3402 into it and the lower housing 106 is screwed into the upper housing 1200 using the threads 1256 of the upper housing 1200 and the threads 1712 of the lower housing 1700. Thereby, it can be attached to the upper housing 104. The lower housing 1700 may be mounted within the upper housing 1200, where the line A--A associated with the upper housing 1200 in FIG. 14 becomes the line B--B associated with the lower housing 1700 in FIG. Parallel. Upper housing 1200 can be removed from lower housing 1700 by grabbing loops 1212 and 1214 and rotating the upper housing 90 ° counterclockwise, A--A is perpendicular to line B--B and above. Housing 1200 is in the removed position with respect to lower housing 1700.

FIG. 36 shows the upper housing upper 3602 of the upper housing 3604 of the radiometer according to one embodiment of the present invention. The upper housing 3604 comprises a circular body 3606 and two nearly trapezoidal loops 3612 and 3614 mounted on opposite sides 3616 and 3618 of the circular body 3606, respectively. Loops 3612 and 3614 have openings 3626 and 3628, respectively, through which a strap member (not shown) can be screwed in and a dosimeter can be attached to the individual's wrist. The upper housing upper 3602 comprises a contour portion 3630, a flat pentagonal upper surface 3632 and five (5) faceted areas 3634. The top surface 3632 comprises a curved arrow 3642 and a circular alignment symbol 3644. A label with an alphanumeric identification mark (not shown) can be glued to the upper housing upper 3602 or an alphanumeric identification mark can be etched into the upper housing upper 3602. The upper housing 3604 includes a circular inner wall (not shown) with internal threads (not shown). The upper housing 3604 can be used with the lower housing of the present invention in a manner similar to the way the upper housing 104 can be used with the lower housing 106 or the upper housing 1200 can be used with the lower housing 1700.

FIG. 37 shows the upper housing upper 3702 of the upper housing 3704 of the radiometer according to one embodiment of the present invention. The upper housing 3704 comprises a circular body 3706 and two nearly trapezoidal loops 3712 and 3714 mounted on opposite sides 3716 and 3718 of the circular body 3706, respectively. Loops 3712 and 3714 have openings 3726 and 3728, respectively, through which a strap member (not shown) can be screwed in and a dosimeter can be attached to the individual's wrist. The upper housing upper 3702 has a contour portion 3730, a flat octagonal upper surface 3732 and eight (8) faceted areas 3734. The top surface 3732 comprises a curved arrow 3742 and a circular alignment symbol 3744. Labels with an alphanumeric identification mark (not shown) can be glued to the upper housing upper 3702 or the alphanumeric identification mark can be etched into the upper housing upper 3702. The upper housing 3704 includes a circular inner wall (not shown) with an internal thread (not shown). The upper housing 3704 can be used with the lower housing of the present invention in a manner similar to the way the upper housing 104 can be used with the lower housing 106 or the upper housing 1200 can be used with the lower housing 1700.

FIG. 38 shows a radiation meter 3802 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The dosimeter 3802 includes a dosimeter thread 3808 that slides in and out of the upper housing 3804, lower housing 3806 and lower housing 3806. The upper housing 3804 comprises two loops 3812, each with an opening 3814. The upper housing 3804 comprises an internal thread 3816. The lower housing 3806 includes an external thread 3818 and a thread recess (not visible in FIG. 38). The rectangular copper filter plate 3820 is provided in a rectangular plate recess (not shown) of the lower housing 3806. The neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 3822 is mounted in the opening 3824 of the dosimeter thread 3808. The reference OSL sensor 3826 is mounted on the opening 3828 of the dosimeter thread 3808. The comparator OSL sensor 3830 for the reference OSL sensor 3826 is mounted in the opening 3832 of the dosimeter thread 3808. The Fluorescent Nucleus Track Detector (FNTD) 3842 is mounted in the bottom surface recess 3844 of the bottom surface 3846 of the dosimeter thread 3808. Dosimeter thread 3808 is equipped with rail 3848. The bottom surface 3850 of the lower housing 3806 comprises two diamond recesses 3852 and one C-shaped recess 3854.

The neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 3822 comprises a cylindrical cup outer filter 3856, a cylindrical cup inner filter 3858, a converter material disk 3860, a conformal disk 3862, an OSLM disk 3864 and a retention ring 3866. The retention ring 3866 holds the OSLM disk 3864, the conformal disk 3862 and the converter material disk 3860 within the inner filter 3858. The inner filter 3858 is installed in the outer filter 3856. The outer filter 3856 is installed in the opening 3822.

The reference OSL sensor 3826 comprises a cylindrical cup out-of-shape filter 3870, a cylindrical cup in-shape filter 3872, a reference filter material disc 3874, an OSLM disc 3878, and a retention ring 3880. The retention ring 3880 holds the OSLM disk 3878 and the reference filter material disk 3874 within the inner filter 3872. The inner filter 3872 is installed inside the outer filter 3870. The outer filter 3870 is mounted within the opening 3826.

The comparator OSL sensor 3830 comprises a cylindrical cup-shaped filter 3882, a reference filter material disc 3884, an OSLM disc 3886 and a retention ring 3888. The retention ring 3888 holds the OSLM disk 3886 and the reference filter material disk 3884 within the filter 3882. The filter 3882 is installed in the opening 3830.

The OSLM disc shown in Figure 38 is yellow for illustration purposes, but the OSLM disc is actually slightly white.

The conformal disc 3862 made from PE is thinner and more supple than the thicker converter material disc 3860 made from HDPE. In one embodiment of the invention, the converter material disc 3860 can be made by punching out the converter material disc 3860 from a piece of HDPE material, which can lead to the converter material disc 3860 having a recessed or convex shape. .. When the converter material disk 3860 has such a concave or convex shape, a small gap is formed between the converter material disk 3860 and the OSLM 3864. A conformal disk 3862 can be used to fill this gap. The combination of the conformal disc 3862 and the converter material disc 3860 can be thought of as acting as a "mixed converter material disc". The conformal disc 3862 ensures that there is closer contact between this "mixed converter material disc" and the OSLM 3864. The outer filters 3856 and 3870 are made of copper. The inner filters 3858 and 3872 and the filter 3882 are made of aluminum. OSLM disks 3864, 3878 and 3886 are Al₂O₃: Made of C material. Retaining ring 3866, 3880 and 3888 are made of stainless steel.

FIG. 39 shows the bottom surface 3902 of the thread body of the dosimeter thread body 3904 of the dosimeter thread 3808. The dosimeter thread body 3904 is similar to the dosimeter thread body 602. The openings 3824, 3828 and 3832 include a top portion (not shown) and a bottom portion 3924, 3926 and 3928, respectively. The top portion is smaller than the bottom portions 3924, 3926 and 3928 of the openings 3824, 3828 and 3832, respectively, so the neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 3822, reference OSL sensor 3826 and comparator installed within the openings 3824, 3828, 3832, respectively. The OSL sensor 3830 is adjacent to the circular ledges 3940, 3942 and 3944 formed within the openings 3824 and 3828 by the upper portion of these openings. A circular RFID tag (not shown) can be mounted on the top (not shown) of the dosimeter thread body 3904. The dosimeter thread body 3904 has two parallel lateral sides 3692 and 3964, two substantially straight end sides 3966 and 3968, and two tilted sides 3970 and 3972. The lateral side 3962 comprises a rail 3848 along the length of the lateral side 3962 above the lower half of the lateral side 3962. Rail 3848 projects from the lateral side 3962. The lateral side surface 3964 comprises a rail 3976 along the length of the lateral side surface 3964 above the lower half of the lateral side surface 3964. Rail 3976 projects from the lateral side surface 3964. The lateral side 3962 is equipped with a U-shaped detent 3978 and tongue 3979 near the end side 3968. Rail 3848 features three semi-circular positioning notches 3980, 3982 and 3984. The bottom surface 3902 of the thread body includes a bottom recess 3844. The bottom recess 3844 comprises indents 3988, 3990, 3992, 3994 and 3996. Indents 3988, 3990, 3992, 3994 and 3996 in the bottom 3844 are FNTD3

The thread top surface (not shown) of thread 3808 may be provided with an alphanumeric seal (not shown).

Figure 40 shows the dosimeter thread 3808 with the FNTD3842 mounted in the bottom surface recess 3844. As can be seen in Figure 40, the FNTD3842 has a punched card shape.

In the dosimeter threads of FIGS. 38, 39 and 40, recesses are configured so that part of the FNTD is in contact with the thread. An example of a suitable fluorescent nucleus track detector is Akselrod et al., US Patent Application No. 12 / 258,035, filed October 24, 2008 under the name "Methods for Measuring Luminescence Solid State Dosimeters of Mixed Radiation". The entire content and disclosure thereof is incorporated herein by reference. The recess also has a facet on which a PTFE reference filter is installed and LiF or other Li-based compounds are installed. That is, there are three adjacent filtered areas on one FNTD sensor. When the dosimeter thread is made of HDPE, the region senses recoil protons and neutrons in the form of gamma / X-rays. Areas filtered by PTFE only detect gamma / X-rays. The filtered region of Li senses neutrons using an alternative neutron interaction process, whereby lithium captures neutrons and splits into alpha particles and tritium or H-3 ions. Similar to recoil protons from HDPE, alpha particles and tritium ions form tracks within FNTD and, once counted or otherwise quantified, can be associated with neutron dose. FNTDs are more neutron sensitive than OSLM, but not gamma and X-rays. FNTD can be used as an alternative or second dosimeter because its signal is stronger. However, since FNTD cannot be read in a small portable reader, FNTD is unthreaded and read in a special reader elsewhere, such as in the lab.

Figures 41, 42, 43, 44 and 45 show the dose counting housing 4100 of a radiometer according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figures 41 and 43 show the upper housing 4102. Figures 42 and 44 show the bottom of the upper housing 4104. The dose counting housing 4100 comprises two nearly trapezoidal loops 4112 and 4114 installed on opposite sides 4116 and 4118 of the circular body 4106 and the circular body 4106, respectively . Loops 4112 and 4114 have openings 4126 and 4128, respectively, through which a strap member (not shown) can be screwed in and a dosimeter can be attached to the individual's wrist. The upper housing upper 4102 has a circular contour portion 4130 and a flat circular upper surface 4132, and comprises a curved arrow 4142, a circular alignment symbol 4144 and a shallow rounded rectangular recess 4146. In one embodiment of the invention, a label with an alphanumeric identification mark (not shown) can be glued to the upper housing upper 4102 within a shallow rounded rectangular recess 4146. In another embodiment of the invention, an alphanumeric identification mark (not shown) may be engraved in a shallow rounded rectangular recess 4146. The circular inner wall 4154 of the upper housing bottom 4104 comprises an internal thread 4156, a circumferential gasket 4158 and a protrusion 4160. The inner wall 4154 surrounds the circular recess 4162 with a flat bottom 4164.

The gasket can be made of a suitable gasket material, such as rubber, silicone, etc.

In one embodiment of the invention, in addition to the threads, the lower and / or upper housings have a raised surface made of a gasket material such as silicone or rubber, and when screwed together, the two housings Provide a waterproof seal.

Figures 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54 and 55 show the dosimeter thread body 4602 according to one embodiment of the invention. Figures 46 and 48 show the thread body top surface 4604 of the dosimeter thread body 4602. Figures 47 and 49 show the thread body bottom surface 4606 of the dosimeter thread body 4602. The thread top surface 4604 and the thread body bottom surface 4606 face each other. The dosimeter thread body 4602 comprises three openings 4610, 4612 and 4614. The openings 4610, 4612 and 4614 include top portions 4618, 4620 and 4622 and bottom portions 4624, 4626 and 4628, respectively. Since the top portions 4618 and 4620 are smaller than the bottom portions 4624 and 4626 of the openings 4610 and 4612, respectively, the circular ledges 4640 and 4642 are formed within the openings 4610 and 4612 by the top portions 4618 and 4620. Since the top portion 4622 is smaller than the bottom portion 4628 of the opening 4614, the circular ledge 4644 within the opening 4614 is formed by the top portion 4622. A circular RFID tag (not shown, similar to the RFID tag 660) can be provided in the RFID tag recess 4656 within the upper surface 4604 of the thread body. The RFID tag recess 4656 includes a flat outer portion 4657 for receiving the circumference of the RFID tag with an antenna (not shown) and a curved inner portion 4658 for receiving the under-projecting memory chip of the RFID tag. The RFID tag recess 4656 also comprises indents 4659 and 4560 to receive the respective adhesive dots used to mount the RFID tag within the RFID tag recess 4656. The dosimeter thread body 4602 has two parallel lateral sides 4662 and 4664, a curved end side 4666, a substantially straight end side 4668, and two tilt angle sides 4670 and 4672. Lateral side 4662 is a lateral side A rail 4674 is provided along the length of the lateral side 4662 above the lower half of the 4662. Rail 4674 projects from the lateral side 4662. Rail 4674 has a chamfered edge 4675. The lateral side 4664 comprises a rail 4676 along the length of the lateral side 4664 above the lower half of the lateral side 4664. Rail 4676 projects from the lateral side 4664. Rail 4676 has a chamfered edge 4677. The lateral side 4662 is equipped with a U-shaped detent 4678 and a tongue 4679 near the end side 4668. Rail 4674 includes three semi-circular positioning notches 4680, 4682 and 4684. The bottom surface 4606 of the thread body comprises a bottom surface recess 4686. The bottom surface recess 4686 comprises indents 4688, 4690, 4692, 4694 and 4696.

An FNTD (not shown) can be mounted on an FNTD holder 4702 with a bottom surface recess 4686 and a lifted bed 4704 and a spring flange 4706. The bottom surface recess 4686 comprises a retaining lip 4708. The spring flange 4706 and retention lip 4708 are used to hold the FNTD in the FNTD holder 4702. The spring flange 4706 can be pushed outward to allow the FNTD to be installed in the FNTD holder 4702. The spring flange 4706 then springs back under the retaining lip 4708 to push the FNTD against the wall 4710 of the bottom surface recess 4686. Indents 4688, 4690, 4692, 4694 and 4696 in the bottom surface recess of the thread body provide the FNTD in the bottom surface recess 4686 and assist in removing the FNTD from the bottom surface recess 4886. The top surface of the thread 4604 comprises an alphanumeric stamp 4712.

The chamfering of the rail edge of the dosimeter thread provides a channel between the rail in the lower housing and the thread recess, allowing a small amount of dust and debris to accumulate without interfering with sliding movement inside and outside the thread recess. To.

Since the OSL sensor installed in the opening 4610 is the OSL sensor closest to the curved end side 4666, the curved end side 4666 is the neutron sensitive OSL sensor 626 of the dosimeter thread 600 and the straight end side. The OSL sensor provided in the opening 4610 is curved to extend the area 4714 between the opening 4610 and the curved end side 4666 compared to the narrower area 673 between the 666 and by the OSL reader. Ensure that the circular optical light pipe of the OSL reader (not shown in Figures 34 and 35) is completely covered when read. There is sufficient distance between the end side 4668 and the opening 4610 to cover the optical light pipe of the OSL reader, and it is not important to bend the end side 4668.

Regarding FNTD, there are three (3) filter materials. In the embodiments of the invention shown in FIGS. 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54 and 55, one filter material is a raised bed of FNTD holders, which is a dosimeter made of HDPE. It is part of the thread and therefore acts as a neutron converter. The second filter material is made of PTFE and is installed in the bottom surface recess and acts as a reference filter material. The third filter material is lithium fluoride crystals, which convert low-energy neutrons into recoil alpha and tritium particles.

Figure 55 shows the dosimeter lower housing 5502 screwed into the dosimeter housing 4100. The lower housing 4402 is similar to the lower housing 1700. The external thread 5512 of the lower housing 5502 engages the internal thread of the upper housing 4100. Gasket 4158 provides a seal between the seal shelf 5522 of the upper housing 4100 and the seal shelf 5524 of the lower housing 5502. The dosimeter thread body 4602 is shown to slide the RFID tag 5514 into the lower housing 5502 provided in the RFID tag recess 4656. FIG. 57 shows in more detail how gasket 4158 provides a seal between the seal shelf 5522 of the upper housing 4100 and the seal shelf 5524 of the lower housing 5502. As shown in FIG. 57, the gasket 4158 is provided in the sealing shelf 5522 in the circumferential shape of the circular groove 5702.

Figures 58, 59, 60, 61, 62 and 63 show the components of the OSL sensor 5802 and the OSL sensor 5802 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The OSL sensor 5802 includes a disk-shaped pellet of OSLM5810, a filter material disk 5812, a cylindrical cup-shaped inner filter 5814 and a cylindrical cup-shaped outer filter 5816. The OSLM5810 and filter material disk 5812 are held in place within the inner filter 5814 by a retention ring 5818. The filter material disk 5812 is sandwiched between the OSLM 5810 and the inner filter 5814. The retention ring 5818 is a spring-type retention ring that is held in place within the inner filter 5814 by compression. When compressed into the inner filter 5814, the ends 5820 and 5822 of the retention ring 5818 are adjacent to each other. The inner filter 5814 is installed and held within the outer filter 5816 by press fitting the inner filter 5814 into the outer filter 5816. The OSLM5810 comprises a filtered side 5836, i.e. a side of the OSLM5810 filtered by a filter material disk 5812, an inner filter 5814 and an outer filter 5816. OSLM5810 has an exposed aspect of 5840. A retention ring 5818 is mounted on the exposed side 5840 of the OSLM 5810.

The OSL sensor 5802 has a width / diameter of 5842 and a height of 5844. The OSLM5810 has a width / diameter of 5852 and a height of 5854.

For the OSL sensors in Figures 58 and 59, the outer filter is made of copper, the inner filter is made of aluminum, and the OSLM is Al.₂O₃If the: C material is provided and the filter material disc is made of high density polyethylene, the OSL sensor corresponds to the neutron sensitive OSL sensor 626 in Figures 6 and 7. In Figures 58 and 59, the outer filter is made of copper, the inner filter is made of aluminum, and the OSLM is Al.₂O₃If the: C material is provided and the filter material disc is made of polytetrafluoroethylene, the OSL sensor corresponds to the reference OSL sensor 628 in Figures 6 and 7.

For the OSL of FIGS. 58 and 59, if the filter material disk is made of a converter material disk, the OSL sensor corresponds to the neutron sensitive OSL sensor 3410 of FIGS. 34 and 35. If the filter material disc is made of a reference material disc, the OSL sensor corresponds to the reference OSL sensor 3412 in Figures 34 and 35.

In one embodiment of the invention, the OSL sensor has a width / diameter of about 7.7 mm to about 7.8 mm. In one embodiment, the OSL sensor has a width / diameter of about 6.8 mm to about 6.9 mm.

In one embodiment of the invention, the OSLM has a height of about 0.135 mm to about 0.145 mm.

In one embodiment, the OSLM has a width / diameter of about 5.9 mm to about 6 mm.

In one embodiment of the invention, the OSLM has a height of about 0.135 mm to about 0.145 mm.

Figures 60 and 61 show the OSLM 5814 installed in the inner filter 5814. The inner filter 5814 extends from it and comprises a circular base 6012 with a cylindrical wall 6014 forming a recess 6016 equipped with an OSLM 5810. The inner filter 5814 has a width / diameter 6022 and a height 6028. The circular base 6012 has a thickness of 6026. The cylindrical wall 6014 has a thickness of 6028. The recess 6016 has a width / diameter 6032 that is the same as the OSLM 5810 width / diameter 5852.

In one embodiment of the invention, the inner filter has a width / diameter of about 6.8 mm to about 6.9 mm. In one embodiment of the invention, the inner filter has a height of about 2.4 mm to about 2.5 mm. In one embodiment of the invention, the substrate of the inner filter has a thickness of about 0.2 mm to about 2.1 mm. In one embodiment of the invention, the cylindrical wall of the inner filter has a width of about 0.2 mm to about 0.21 mm. In one embodiment of the invention, the recesses of the inner filter have a final width / diameter of about 6.1 mm to about 6.2 mm.

Figures 62 and 63 show a relaxed retention ring 5818 with a gap 6212 between the ends 5280 and 5822. The retention ring 5818 has a maximum diameter of 6214, X thickness and 6216 and Y thickness 6218. The maximum diameter 6214 is slightly larger than the width / diameter 6032 of the recess 6016 of the inner filter 5814.

In one embodiment of the invention, the retaining ring has an X thickness of about 0.6 mm to about 0.62 mm. In one embodiment of the invention, the retaining ring has a Y thickness of about 0.6 mm to about 0.62 mm.

Figures 64 and 65 show the outer filter 5816. The outer filter 5816 comprises a circular base 6412 with a cylindrical wall 6014 extending from it to form a recess 6416. The outer filter 5816 has a width / diameter 6422 and a height 6424. The circular base 6412 has a thickness of 6426. The cylindrical wall 6414 has a thickness of 6428. The recess 6416 has a width / diameter 6432 that is substantially the same as the width / diameter 6222 of the inner filter 5814.

In one embodiment of the invention, the outer filter has a width / diameter of about 7.7 mm to about 7.75 mm. In one embodiment of the invention, the outer filter has a height of about 3 mm to about 3.1 mm. In one embodiment of the invention, the base of the outer filter has a thickness of about 0.36 mm to about 0.37 mm. In one embodiment of the invention, the cylindrical wall of the outer filter has a width of about 0.4 mm to about 0.41 mm.

Although the cylindrical cup-shaped filter used in the embodiment of the OSL sensor of the present invention is shown above and in the drawings, the filter of the present invention may have any of various shapes. The advantage of cylindrical cup-shaped radiation filters is that they can measure the high angle of radiation incidence. Instead of having a circular base, the filters of the present invention may have bases of other shapes such as, for example, elliptical, triangular, square, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal. The filters of the present invention can be solid, and in that case are mounted above one aspect of the OSLM, or mounted on the OSL. Alternatively, as similar to the OSL sensor in FIGS. 58 and 59, the filter may have a recess in which the OSLM can be installed. The circular cross-section of the recesses can resemble the shape of the substrate, such as the circular cross-sections of the recesses of FIGS. 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, and 63.

The OSL sensor of the present invention may include one, two, three or any other number of filters. When the filters are cup-shaped, the filters nest one of each other, as shown in Figures 7, 34, 35, 58, 59, 60 and 61. Cup-shaped filters with a circular cross-section are shown in FIGS. 7, 34, 35, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62 and 63, eg, ellipse, triangle, square, rectangle, pentagon, hexagon, octagon. Cup-shaped filters with other cross-sectional shapes, such as squares, can also be nested together.

In one embodiment of the invention, OSL sensors have only one cylindrical cup shape for neutron-sensitive OSL sensors and reference OSL sensors during both OSL sensor responses that respond similarly to gamma and X-ray radiation. May be used.

Although the OSLM disc-shaped pellets used in the embodiments of the OSL sensor of the present invention are described above and shown in the drawings, the OSLM used in the OSL sensor can have a variety of shapes and cross-sectional views. When installed in the filter, OSLM is complementary to the shape of the filter, such as the OSLM disc-shaped pellets installed in the cylindrical cup-shaped filter or the rectangular box-shaped pellets installed in the filter with rectangular box-shaped recesses. It can have a certain shape.

In one embodiment of the invention, OSLM is poured into a cup-shaped filter in liquid form. When the OSLM hardens, the OSLM has the shape of a recess in the cup-shaped filter.

In one embodiment, the OSLM of the invention is an Al made from particles having a particle size of 30-40 μm.₂O₃It may be a disc-shaped pellet with: C. The thickness of the pellet can vary depending on the specific application.

Although the filters of the present invention of the embodiments described above and shown in the drawings are made of copper and aluminum, the filters of the present invention can be made of other materials that are sensitive to radiation. In one embodiment, the filter can be made of plastic that scatters metal particles or metal powder into it. The type of metal used in such a plastic / metal filter, and the size of the particles, can vary depending on the function of the filter. When a filter is used to remove the presence of low energy X-rays, for example, metals with a large atomic weight are preferred. The degree of X-ray absorption can be adjusted by varying the concentration and particle size of the metal particles in the plastic / metal filter. Metals with a small atomic weight can be used in filters whose filters are designed to provide low energy compensation. The degree of X-ray absorption can be adjusted by varying the concentration and particle size of the metal particles in the plastic / metal filter.

In one embodiment of the invention, the filter held by the dosimeter thread may include a plastic / metal filter, where each filter contains different types of metal particles and / or different concentrations of metal within the plastic material of each filter. Particles and / or metal particles of different particle sizes are dispersed.

In the embodiments shown, there are three OSL sensors in the dosimeter thread, but in some embodiments of the invention there are one, two, or four or more OSL sensors in the dosimeter thread. You may. If necessary, four or more sensors can be accommodated within the dosimeter thread by making each of the OSL sensors smaller, or by making the dosimeter thread longer, thicker, or wider. obtain.

If necessary, additional sensors and additional types of radiation sensors can be accommodated within the dosimeter thread by making each of the OSL sensors smaller or by making the dosimeter thread longer, thicker, or wider. Can be done.

In one embodiment of the invention, the converter material disc has a thickness of 1 mm to about 1.1 mm. In one embodiment of the invention, the converter material can be a film or sheet with a thickness of 0.1 mm to about 0.2 mm. In one embodiment, the converter material can be a polyethylene film with a thickness of less than 1 mm.

In one embodiment of the invention, the reference filter material coating has a thickness of 1 mm to about 1.1 mm. In one embodiment of the invention, the reference filter material can be a film or sheet with a thickness of 0.1 mm to about 0.2 mm. In one embodiment of the invention, the reference filter material can be a film of polytetrafluoroethylene having a thickness of less than 1 μm.

In various embodiments of the invention, including the embodiments described above and in the drawings, the radiometer may comprise an RFID tag, which tag is an individual associated with the radiometer and radiometer, i.e., radiation dose. Identify the individual wearing the meter. The identification information from the RFID tag allows the RFID tag reader, which is part of the radiometer reader, to access information about the radiometer and the individual from the database. Such information may include: the identity of the individual wearing the dosimeter, the last time the dosimeter was read, the serial number of the reader used for the last dosimeter, and the previous reading of the dosimeter. Results records, cumulative exposure of individuals to various types of radiation, alphanumeric serial numbers assigned to dosimeters, alphanumeric serial numbers assigned to the upper housing, English assigned to the lower housing Numeric serial number, alphanumeric serial number assigned to the dosimeter thread, etc. In some embodiments, the dosimeter reader may also send information to the database to update the information about the dosimeter and the individual in the database. The database can be stored in a dosimeter reader or in another location (eg, personal computer, network computer, centralized recording database, etc.).

In the embodiments described above and in the drawings, the identification stamp / alphanumeric serial number assigned to the dosimeter thread and the upper housing is the same, whereas in other embodiments, the dosimeter thread and the lower housing have the same identification. Different alphanumeric serial numbers can be assigned. The dosimeter as a whole and the upper housing may also be assigned an alphanumeric serial number that is the same as or different from the serial number assigned to the lower housing and the dosimeter thread.

FIG. 66 shows a radiometer 6602 according to one embodiment of the present invention, which comprises a strap member 6604 screwed through the openings 6612 and 6614 of loops 6616 and 6618 of the radiometer 6602, respectively. The strap member 6604 is screwed under the lower housing (not shown) of the radiometer 6602. The strap member 6604 includes a buckle 6632 and a loop 6634 through which the end 6636 can slide, which allows the radiometer 6602 to be worn on the individual's wrist in the same way as wearing a wristwatch. The strap member 6604 can be easily removed from the radiologist 6602 to allow the radiologist 6602 to be read.

FIG. 67 shows a radiometer 6702 according to one embodiment of the invention, which comprises a strap member 6204 screwed through openings 6712 and 6714 of loops 6716 and 6718 of the radiometer 6702, respectively. The strap member 6704 is screwed onto the upper housing 6722 of the radiometer 6702. The strap member 6704 includes a buckle 6732 into which the end 6734 can slide, which allows the radiometer 6702 to be worn on the individual's wrist in the same way as wearing a wristwatch. The strap member 6704 can be easily removed from the radiologist 6702 to allow the radiologist 6702 to be read.

FIG. 68 shows a radiometer 6802 according to one embodiment of the invention attached to the clip 6804. Clip 6804 comprises a strap member 6812, which is looped through the opening 6820 of loop 6822 of the radiometer 6802. The strap member 6812 is back-fastened on itself by snap fasteners 6832. A spring clip 6836 is attached to the strap member 6812 by bolt 6834. The spring clip 6836 can be used to clip the radiometer 6802 to a shirt or trouser pocket, shirt collar, necklace worn by an individual, and the like. The strap member 6812 can be easily removed from the radiologist 6802 to allow the radiologist 6802 to be read.

In the embodiment shown, the strap member is a one-piece strap member, but in other embodiments of the present invention, the strap member may be a two-piece strap member.

Various types of strap members (both adjustable and non-adjustable) can be used with the dosimeters of the present invention. For example, the strap member can be a one-piece elastic strap. The strap member can also be an adjustable strap, with two ends of the strap wrapping the belt around the body of the individual and buckling it or wrapping the wristwatch around the wrist of the individual and buckling it. Buckled together in the same manner as you do. In such a configuration, one end of the strap member comprises a buckle into which the second end of the strap member is inserted. The strap member can also be an adjustable strap member, one end of the strap member comprising a buckle into which the second end of the strap member is screwed so that the length of the strap member is a rucksack. Similar to the adjustable two-piece straps used for shoulder bags, funny packs, etc., the second strap can be adjusted by sliding it through the buckle. An example of such a two-piece strap member is described in US Pat. No. 5,632,429 to Cantwell, the entire contents and disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The strap member can also be an adjustable strap member, the ends thereof being adjustablely fastened together using Velcro® (eg, Velcro®) and the hook strips strapping. At one end of the member, and a strip of loop is at the other end of the strap member. The use of Velcro® to fasten the strap members together also allows the strap member sizes to be hook strips and / or loop strips, and to fasten these strips together to provide strip members of various lengths. Allows adjustment by making it long enough to form. Various other types of adjustable and non-adjustable strip members can also be used with the dosimeters of the present invention.

The dosimeter of the present invention can be worn by an individual in a variety of ways. For example, the dosimeter can be worn on a strap that wraps around the user's wrists, arms, shoulders, head, torso, ankles, legs, and so on. Dosimeters can also be worn on straps that wrap around individual clothing, such as helmets, shirt sleeves, trouser legs, and the like. The dosimeter can also be carried in an individual's shirt pocket, trouser pocket, etc.

Figures 69, 70 and 71 show a portable dosimeter reader 6902 according to one embodiment of the invention, which comprises a dosimeter reader body 6904 mounted within a bi-fold dosimeter reader case 6906. .. The dose meter reader body 6904 includes a dose meter reader chassis 6908, a dose meter drawer 6910, a battery compartment 6912, a display 6920, and control buttons 6922, 6924 and 6926. Control buttons 6922, 6924 and 6926 may be used by the individual as follows: powering on and off the dosimeter reader 6902, starting the analysis sequence of the dosimeter reader 6902, and producing results in low light. Turn on the backlight of the display 6920 for viewing. Control buttons 6922, 6924 and 6926 can also be used to iteratively display various screen displays on the following displays 6920: for analyzing results from dose results, raw data, calibration factors and dosimeter readings. Other information that was present (not shown in Figures 69, 70 and 71). The dosimeter reader body 6904 has three areas: Dosimeter loading / unloading area 6932, dosimeter preparation area 6934 and dosimeter reading area 6936. The housing cover 6940 covers the dose meter preparation area 6934 and the dose meter reading area 6936. Within the battery compartment 6912 are four (4) AA batteries (not visible in Figures 69, 70 and 71), which power the dosimeter reader 6902. The dosimeter leader case 6906 has an upper shell 6952 and a lower shell 6954, which are slewably connected to each other by pivot joints 6965 and 6598. The upper shell 6952 comprises stakes 6960 and 6692, which engage the engagement latch receiving structures 6964 and 6966 on the lower shell 6954 when the upper shell 6952 is swiveled to cover the lower shell 6954. , Hold the upper shell 6952 and the lower shell 6954 together. Handle 6968, which can be used to carry the dosimeter reader 6902, is swivelly mounted on the lower shell 6954.

Pivot junction 6965 extends through the upper pivot structures 6972 and 6974 of the upper shell 6952, the lower pivot structures 6976, 6978 and 6980 of the lower shell 6954, and the pivot structures 6972, 6974, 6976, 6978 and 6980 (FIGS. 69, 70). And 71 is invisible). The pivot joint 6598 is a pin extending through the upper pivot structures 6982 and 6984 of the upper shell 6952, the lower pivot structures 6986, 6988 and 6980 of the lower shell 6954, and the pivot structures 6982, 6984, 6986, 6988 and 6990 (FIGS. 69, 69). And 70 is invisible). The upper shell 6952 comprises operating instructions 6992 for the dosimeter reader 6902. The dosimeter reader body 6904 has a screw 6994 screwed into a double-folded dosimeter leader case 6906 through an opening 6996 into a screw opening 6998 in a frame 7002 provided in the lower shell 6954. It is equipped.

The upper shell 6952 includes a peripheral groove 7012 around the peripheral edge 7014 of the upper shell 6952. The lower shell 6954 comprises a peripheral ridge 7022 around the peripheral edge 7024 of the lower shell 6954. When the dosimeter leader case 6906 is closed, the peripheral ridge 7022 engages the peripheral groove 7012 to form a seal that makes the dosimeter leader case 6906 airtight and waterproof. The lower shell is equipped with a pressure relief valve 7032, which allows the dosimeter leader case 6906 to be opened more easily during opening at different ambient or altitude pressures than when it is closed. If the pressure inside the dosimeter leader case 6906 is much lower than the external pressure, the dosimeter leader case 6906 can be difficult to open.

Figures 72, 73, 74 and 75 show details of the dosimeter drawer 6910 and the dosimeter loading / unloading area 6932. The dosimeter drawer 6910 comprises a drawer base 7202 (dosimeter receiving surface) and a drawer handle 7204. The drawer handle 7204 is part of the hollow drawer housing 7206. The top surface 7208 of the drawer base 7202 comprises a C-shaped ridge 7212. The two retaining tabs 7218 and 7220 extend through the respective openings 7222 and 7224 within the drawer base 7202. Retention tab 7218 comprises outer leg 7232 and inner leg 7234. Leg 7232 is equipped with foot 7236. Retention tab 7220 comprises outer leg 7242 and inner leg 7244. Leg 7242 is equipped with foot 7246. The exposed kidney-shaped dosimeter loop retainer 7256 extends through an opening 7258 within the drawer base 7202. The covered kidney-shaped dosimeter loop retainer 7260 extends through an opening 7262 in the drawer base 7202 and is covered by a drawer housing 7206. The dosimeter loop retainer 7260 is slightly longer than the dosimeter loop retainer 7256. The dosimeter loop retainer 7256 includes a receiving slot 7264, an end wall 7266, a base 7268 and a spring tab 7270. The dosimeter loop retainer 7260 comprises a receiving slot 7272, an end wall 7274, a base 7276 and a spring tab 7278. Drawer housing 7206 includes alignment dots 7825 at curved edges 7284 of drawer housing 7206. Another alignment dot 7286 is located on the dosimeter leader chassis 6908 near the drawer base 7202. In Figures 72, 73 and 75, the entrance 7292 to the preparatory area housing 7294 covered by the housing cover 6940 is also seen. On one side of the entrance 7292 is part of the foam cushioning material 7296. Drawer base 7202 also features loop stopper 7298 To. Drawer base 7202 is slidably mounted in opening 7402 in the dosimeter reader chassis 6908. The opening 7402 is located between the edges 7404 and 7406. Screw 7412 is used to mount the shaft mount (not visible in FIGS. 72, 73, 74 and 75) on the bottom surface of the drawer base 7202 (not visible in FIGS. 72, 73, 74 and 75). The outer leg 7232 has an outer leg upper 7532, the inner leg 7234 has an inner leg upper 7534, the outer leg 7242 has an outer leg upper 7542, and the inner leg 7344 has an inner leg upper 7544.

Figure 76 shows the reader housing 7602 and RFID tag reader 7604 in the dosimeter reading area 6936, where the housing cover 6940 has been removed and is normally covered by the housing cover 6940. The RFID tag reader 7604 includes an RF antenna 7606. The RF antenna 7606 can be used to communicate with the RFID tag RF antenna of a dosimeter thread (not shown) located below the RFID tag reader 7604.

Figure 77 shows the preparation area housing 7702 and leader housing 7602, where the housing cover 6940 has been removed and is normally covered by the housing cover 6940. The preparation area housing 7702 has three walls 7704, 7706 and 7708. RFID tag reader 7604 has been removed to indicate the OSL reader 7712. The OSL reader 7712 is equipped with a thread slider 7714, which moves on rails 7716 and 7718 of the slide rail base 7720. The thread slider 7714 is moved back and forth on rails 7716 and 7718 by drive mechanism 7722. In Figure 77, the distal end 7732 of the drawer base 7202 is at the entrance 7292 of the preparation area housing 7294. Leader housing 7602 includes walls 7742, 7744, 7746 and 7708. The wall 7708 is shared with the preparation area housing 7702.

FIG. 78 shows the drive gear 7022, the return wheel 7804 and the toothed belt 7806 of the drive mechanism 7722. The toothed belt 7806 is driven by the drive gear 7802 and moves around the drive gear 7802 and the return wheel 7804. A thread slider 7714 is mounted on the toothed belt 7806 by a pedestal 7812.

Figure 79 shows the thread slider motor 7912 mounted on the dosimeter reader chassis 6908. The thread slider motor 7912 is equipped with a rotating drive shaft (not visible in FIG. 79) and a drive gear 7802 (not visible in FIG. 79) on top of it. The thread slider motor 7912 uses a rotating drive shaft to drive the drive gear 7802, thereby controlling the movement of the thread slider 7714 (not visible in FIG. 79). Figure 79 also shows the PCB 8420 of the OSL reader 7712 mounted under the dosimeter reader chassis 6908 with screw posts 7922 and screw 7924. Only two screw posts 7922 and two screws 7924 are visible in Figure 79, but four screw posts 7922 and four screws 7924 are used to equip the dosimeter leader chassis 6908 with the PCB 8420. The PCB8420 is pulled away from the dosimeter leader chassis 6908 by a screw post 7922, allowing the motor 7912 to be placed between the dosimeter leader chassis 6908 and the PCB8420. In addition, FIG. 79 shows the USB port 7942 in the wall 7744 of the leader housing 7602. The USB port 7942 communicates the dosimeter reader 6902 with other electronic devices (eg computers, data storage devices, printers, monitors, etc.) using a USB cable (not shown) plugged into the USB port 7942. Allows you to.

Although one method of moving the thread slider is described above and shown in the drawing, the movement of the thread slider can be moved in other ways as well. For example, the thread slide can be moved back and forth using a rack and pinion drive system, where a rotatable pinion gear is mounted on the thread slider and the pinion gear is rotated along the toothed rack. This moves the thread slider back and forth.

Figures 80 and 81 show further details of the OSL reader 7712. In Figures 80 and 81, the optical light pipe 8012 of the OSL reader 7712 can be seen. Alignment marks 8022, 8024, 8026, and 8028 on rail 7716 and alignment marks 8030 can be used to position the thread slider 7714 for various functions. Thread slider 7714 is bifurcated Equipped with tang) 8034, this tongue is equipped with protrusions 8036 and 8038 on both sides of rail 7716. The thread slider 7714 also comprises a pusher end 8040. There is a U-shaped detent 8042 between the bifurcated tongue 8034 and the pusher end 8040. Before the dose meter thread (not shown in Figures 80 and 81) is pushed into the prepared area housing 7294 by the dose meter drawer 6910, the thread slider 7714 passes through the opening 8052 in the wall 7708 and is in each of the dose meter threads. U-shaped anti-returns and tongues (eg, U-shaped anti-returns 678 and tongues 679 of the dosimeter thread 600) are pushed into engaging bifurcated tongue 8034 and U-shaped anti-return 8042, respectively.

Each OSL sensor is moved to its respective reading position by the dosimeter reader 6902 determining the distance that the thread slider 7714 is moving the dosimeter thread. The slider motor comprises an encoder that counts the number of revolutions or steps taken by the drive shaft of the motor. This information can be correlated with the distance traveled. Alignment marks 8022, 8024, 8026, and 8028 and alignment marks 8030 on rail 7716 correspond to the number of steps from the reference point.

In one embodiment of the invention, the dosimeter reader may include a photo-optical sensor for sensing when each of the OSL sensors on the dosimeter thread is lined up with the optical light pipe of the dosimeter reader. The photo-optical sensor can be mounted below one of the rails on which the slider slides and can be aligned with the alignment mark on one of the rails. Figures 82 and 83 show how the positioning notches of the dosimeter thread can be used to align the OSL sensor with the optical path of the OSL reader so that excitation and luminescence light are consistently applied and captured. Shown. FIG. 82 shows a dosimeter thread 8202 with a thread body 8204 and three OSL sensors 8212, 8214 and 8214 in non-reading positions. The OSL sensor 8212 is aligned with the semi-circular positioning notch 8222, the OSL sensor 8214 is aligned with the semi-circular positioning notch 8224, and the OSL sensor 8216 is aligned with the semi-circular positioning notch 8226. The optical path of the photo-optical sensor (indicated by the dashed circle 8232) is blocked by the thread body 8204, which means that the optical light pipe 8234 (its position is indicated by the dashed circle 8232) is lined up with any of the three OSL sensors. Indicates that there is no such thing. The thread body 8204 has a curved end side surface 8242. The OSL sensor 8212 is the OSL sensor closest to the curved end side 8242. There is an area 8244 between the OSL sensor 8212 and the curved end side surface 8242. FIG. 83 shows the reading position of the OSL sensor 8214. The notch 8224 creates a gap through which the optical path of the photo-optical sensor (indicated by the solid circle 8332) can pass, which is indicated by the optical light pipe 8334 (whose position is indicated by the double dashed circle) in the sensor 8212. Indicates that they are lined up with. Notches 8224 and 8226 can be used similarly to indicate the reading position of OSL sensors 8214 and 8216, respectively. The curved end side 8242 is read by the OSL sensor 8212 Ensure that the area 8244 between the OSL sensor 8212 and the curved end side 8242 is large enough so that when the optical light pipe 8234 is completely covered. As shown in FIGS. 82 and 83, the optical light pipe 8012 has approximately the same diameter as the inner diameter of each of the OSL sensors.

Figure 84 shows the back side 8402 of the dosimeter reader body 6904 for the OSL reader 7712, which includes the lift 8412, the control electronic circuit 8414, the photooptical engine frame 8416, the electronic connector 8418 to the battery compartment 6912, and the printed circuit. It is equipped with a board (PCB) 8420. Proximal mounting strips 8422 and screws 8424 and 8426 are used to mount the drawer housing 7206 on the bottom surface 8428 of the drawer base 7202 at the proximal end of the drawer base 7202. Screws 8424 and 8426 are screwed to screw posts 8432 and 8434 on the proximal mounting strip 8422. The mounting strip 8422 and screws 8424 and 8426 are also used to mount the proximal flap 8440 on the drawer base 7202 at the proximal end 8430 of the drawer base 7202. Proximal flap 8440 comprises edges 8442 and 8444. Slide tracks 8452 and 8454 are mounted on the dosimeter reader chassis 6908. One edge of drawer base 7202 (not visible in Figure 84) slides in a slide groove in slide track 8452 (not visible in Figure 84), and a second edge of drawer base 7202 (not visible in Figure 84). Slides within a slide groove (not visible in FIG. 84) within the slide track 8454, which allows the drawer base 7202 to slide when pushed and pulled by the drawer handle 7204. The edges 8442 and 8444 of the proximal flap 8440 also slide within the slide grooves of the slide tracks 8452 and 8454, respectively. The proximal flap 8440 is flexible and the proximal flap moves from the dosimeter preparation area 6934 to the dosimeter loading / unloading area 6932 by the dosimeter drawer 6910, as can be seen by the bending of the proximal flap 8440. Allows it to bend or roll downwards when pressed against the dosimeter leader case 6906. Sly A proximal spring stopper 8456 is installed on the Dotrack 8452. A proximal sensor switch 8458 is mounted on the slide track 8454. Proximal Spring Stopper 8456 provides lift 8412 with Proximal Spring Stopper 8456 and Proximal Sensor Switch 8458 as the lift 8412 moves in the direction from the dosimeter preparation area 6934 to the dosimeter loading / unloading area 6932. Prevent moving beyond. Proximal sensor switch 8458 is part of sensor device 8462, which senses when the thread post 8434 comes into contact with sensor switch 8458, which means that the drawer housing 7206 has a dosimeter loading / unloading area. Indicates that it is within 6932.

FIG. 85 is an enlarged image of the PCB 8420 for the OSL reader 7712.

Figures 86, 87, 88 and 89 show the operation of the lift 8412. In Figures 86, 87, 88 and 89, the dosimeter reader 6902 is shown upside down and the left-to-right movement of the dosimeter 8412 is from the loading / unloading area 6932 of the dosimeter 8412 and the dosimeter drawer 3914. Corresponds to the move to the preparation area 6934. The lift 8412 comprises a barrel 8614 and a loop retainer lift 8612. The loop retainer lift 8612 comprises two kidney-shaped posts 8616 and 8618. Post 8616 is part of the loop retainer 7256. Post 8618 is part of the loop retainer 7260. The barrel 8614 is equipped with a pinion gear 8622, which is mounted on the barrel top 8624 of the barrel 8614. The teeth 8626 of the pinion gear 8622 extend through the opening 8628 in the loop retainer lift 8612 and mesh with the teeth 8632 of the rack 8634. Looking at the inner barrel from under the dosimeter reader body 6904, as the pinion gear 8622 rotates counterclockwise, the dosimeter 8412 will load / unload the dosimeter until the lift 8412 reaches the position shown in Figure 86. Move along rack 8634 from loading area 6932 to dosimeter preparation area 6934. As the lift 8412 moves from the dosimeter loading / unloading area 6932 to the dosimeter preparation area 6934, the tongue (not shown) on the inner surface (not shown) of the loop retainer lift 8612 is the outer wall 8644 of the barrel 8614. Moving through the upper groove 8642, and the loop retainer elevating section 8612 is driven upwards, thereby moving the loop retainers 7256 and 7260 upwards, i.e. through the openings 7258 and 7262 in the drawer base 7202, respectively. Raise. FIG. 86 shows the lift 8412 in the dosimeter loading / unloading area 6932, with the loop retainer lift 8612 in the lowered position. Figure 87 shows the dosimeter loading / unloading area 69. It shows the lift 8412 between 32 and the dosimeter preparation area 6934, with the loop retainer lift 8612 in a partially elevated position. Figures 88 and 89 show the lift 8412 fully moved to the dosimeter preparation area 6934, with the loop retainer lift 8612 in the fully raised position.

Figure 89 shows a rack 8634 and slide track 8452 mounted on chassis edge 7404 with screws 8912 and 8914. The slide track 8452 is sandwiched between the rack 8634 and the chassis edge 7404. FIG. 89 also shows the bottom surface 8922 of the loop retainer lift 8612, with the barrel 8714 extending through the circular opening 8924 in the loop retainer lift. Screws 8932 and 8934 are used to mount the pinion gear 8622 on the barrel 8714. Axle post 8942 extends through opening 8944 in circular bearing 8946. The spacer clip 8948 ensures that the clearance between the circular bearing 8946 and the base 8952 of the shaft post 8942 is maintained so that the barrel 8714 and pinion gear 8622 rotate around the post 8942. The shaft post 8942 is part of a shaft mount (not visible in Figure 89) that is mounted in place on the drawer base 7202.

The process shown in Figures 86, 87, 88 and 89 can also be reversed. As the lift 8412 moves from the dosimeter preparation area 6934 to the dosimeter loading / unloading area 6932, the tongue on the inner surface of the loop retainer lift 8612 moves through the groove 8642 on the outer wall 8644 of the barrel 8614, loop retainer. The elevating part 8612 is driven downwards, thereby moving the loop retainers 7256 and 7260 downwards, i.e., through the openings 7258 and 7262 in the drawer base 7202, respectively.

Figures 90 and 91 show details of the retention tab 7218, retention tab 7220, pinion gear 8622 and drawer base 7202. As shown in FIG. 91, the retaining tab 7218 has a pin 9012 extending from the tab base 9014. The retention tab 7218 also has an upper body 9016 extending from the tab base 9014. Outer leg 7232 and inner leg 7234 extend from the upper body of the tab. The retaining tab 7220 has a pin 9022 extending from the tab base 9024. The retention tab 7220 also has an upper body 9026 extending from the tab base 9014. Outer leg 7242 and inner leg 7244 extend from the upper body of the tab. The retaining tab 7218 is slidably mounted in the curved slot 9032 of the pinion gear 8622 using pin 9012. The retaining tab 7220 is slidably mounted in the curved slot 9034 of the pinion gear 8622 using pin 9012. The tab bases 9014 and 9024 are on the curved slots 9032 and 9034, respectively, so as the pins 9012 and 9022 move in the curved slots 9032 and 9034, the outer leg top 7532, the inner leg top 7534, and the outer leg top 7542. And the upper part of the inner leg 7544 is maintained at the same height above the pinion gear 8622. The curved slot 9032 comprises a flat portion 9042 and a curved portion 9044. The curved slot 9034 comprises a flat portion 9046 and a curved portion 9048. As the pinion gear 8622 rotates along the rack 8634, the holding tabs 7218 and 7220 are prevented from moving with the pinion gear 8622 by openings 7222 and 7224 in the drawer base 7202, respectively, thus causing the pinion gear 8622 to rotate with the rack 8364. As it rotates along, pins 9012 and 9022 move within curved slots 9032 and 9034, respectively.

When the lift 8412 and pinion gear 8622 are in the dosimeter loading / unloading section 6932, the pins 9012 and 9022 are in the flat portion 9043 of the curved slot 9032 and the flat portion 9046 of the curved slot 9034, respectively. As the pinion gear 8622 rotates along the rack 8634 from the dosimeter loading / unloading section 6932 to the dosimeter preparation area 6934, pins 9012 and 9022 are curved in curved slot 9032 and curved in curved slot 9034, respectively. Moved along part 9048. The retaining tabs 7218 and 7220 are shown in Figure 106 and below when the pins 9021 and 9022 move through the curved parts 9044 and 9048 because the curved parts 9044 and 9048 are more distant from each other than the flat parts 9042 and 9046. Spread outward from each other as described.

Figures 90 and 91 also show further features of the pinion gear 8622 and drawer base 7202. The pinion gear 8622 has openings 9052 and 9054 through which screws 893 and 8934 (not shown in Figures 90 and 91) are screwed in and the pinion gear 8622 is mounted on the barrel 8614 of the lift 8412. There is. The shaft mount 9062 comprises a shaft post 8942 on which the pinion gear 8622 rotates. Axial mount 9062 is provided in recess 9064 within the bottom surface 8428 of drawer base 7202 using screws 7412 (not visible in Figures 90 and 91). A distal mounting strip 9072 with screw posts 9074 and 9076 is mounted on the bottom surface 8428 of drawer base 7202 using screws 9078 and 9080. The distal spring stop 9082 is mounted on the slide track 8452. The distal sensor switch 9094 is mounted on the slide track 8454. When the lift 8412 moves in the direction from the dosimeter loading / unloading area 6932 to the dosimeter preparation area 6934, the distal spring stop 9082 causes the lift 8412 to cross the distal spring stop 9082 and the distal sensor switch 9084. Prevents movement. The distal sensor switch 9084 is part of the sensor device 9088 that senses when the screw post 9076 contacts the distal sensor switch 9084, indicating that the drawer housing 7206 is within the dosimeter preparation area 6934.

The slide groove 9092 of slide track 8454 can also be seen in Figure 90. The slide track 8454 has the same slide groove (not visible in FIG. 90). One edge of the drawer base 7202 slides in the slide groove 9092, and the second edge of the drawer base 7202 slides in the slide groove of the slide track 8452, thereby pushing or pulling by the drawer handle 7204. Allows the drawer base 7202 to slide when squeezed.

FIG. 90 shows that the pinion gear 8622 is separated from the barrel 8614 and rests on the bottom surface 8922 of the loop retainer lift 8612.

Figures 92 and 93 show the photooptical engine frame 8416, LED plate assembly base 9208 mounted on the bottom surface 9210 of the photooptical engine frame 8416 by screw 9212, photomultiplier tube (PMT) mount plate 9214, PMT9216, screw 9224. Shows the LED interconnect PCB assembly 9220 mounted on the side surface 9222 of the photooptical engine frame 8416 and the filter panel 9234 mounted on the photooptical engine frame 8416. The LED interconnect PCB assembly 9220 features a power jack 9236.

Figures 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99 and 100 show the various components of the photo-optical engine 9402 and the photo-optical engine 9402 of the reader 7712. An optical light pipe assembly 9406 with an optical light pipe 8012 extending through the OSL light pipe mount 9408 is mounted on the top surface 9410 of the photo-optical engine frame 8416 using screws 9412, and the optical light pipe 8012 is open. Extends to part 9414. The slide rail base 7720 is mounted on the optical light pipe mount 9408 using screws 9416. A photodiode printed circuit board (PCB) assembly 9418 with a photodiode 9420 is mounted on the side surface 9422 of the photooptical engine frame 8416 using screws 9424, and the photodiode 9420 extends into an opening 9426. The LED plate assembly 9428 with the LED plate assembly base 9208 is mounted on the side surface 9210 of the photooptical engine frame 8416 using screws 9212. The photomultiplier tube (PMT) lens 9430, PMT lens gasket 9432 and blue glass filter 9434 are mounted in the opening 9436 in the side surface 9438 of the photooptical engine frame 8416. The PMT mount plate 9214 is mounted on the PMT9216 using screw 9440. The PMT mount plate 9214 and PMT mount plate gasket 9442 are mounted on the side surface 9438 of the photo-optical engine frame 8416 using screws 9444. The LED interconnect PCB assembly 9220 is mounted on the side 9222 of the photooptical engine frame 8416 using screws 9224. The PMT mount plate features an opening 9446, and the PMT mount plate gasket 9442 has a (PMT) lens 9430 and a blue gala. It has an opening 9448 aligned with the filter 9434. The PMT9216 comprises a photocathode 9450.

OSL Filter Optical Assembly 9452 includes Assembly Mount Bottom 9454, Opening Circular Bottom Gasket 9456, Green Glass Filter 9458, Opening Circular Middle Gasket 9460, Dichroic Mirror 9426 Lined with Green Glass Filter 9458, Opening Circular Top Gasket 9464 and Assembly Mount Top Equipped with 9466. The assembly mount top 9466 fits into the assembly mount bottom 9454, and both the assembly mount top 9466 and the assembly mount bottom 9454 are the remaining components of the OSL filter optical assembly 9452 bottom gasket 9456, green glass filter 9458, middle gasket 9460. Encloses the Dycroic Mirror 9462 and the Upper Gasket 9464. In that case, the OSL filter optical assembly 9452 is installed in the opening 9468 in the side surface 9470 of the photooptical engine frame 8416. Installed within the opening 9468, the assembly mount top 9466 and assembly mount bottom 9454 are held together by the diamond-shaped inner wall 9472 of the opening 9468, thereby holding the remaining components of the OLS filter optical assembly 9452 together. The lower gasket 9456 is sandwiched between the bottom assembly mount 9454 and the green glass filter 9458, the middle gasket 9460 is sandwiched between the green glass filter 9458 and the dichroic mirror 9462, and the upper gasket 9464 is It is sandwiched between the dichroic mirror 9462 and the upper assembly mount 9466. When held together, the OSL filter optical assembly 9452 has a shape that complementarily engages the inner wall 9472 of the opening 9468. The bottom assembly mount 9454 has a circular opening 9474, and the top assembly mount 9404 has a circular opening 9478 that allows light to pass through the OSL filter optical assembly 9416. Assembly machine The und upper 9466 has two curved ends 9482 and 9484. The OSL filter optical assembly 9452 is held in place within the opening 9468 by a filter panel 9234 and filter panel gasket 9488 mounted on the side surface 9470 of the photooptical engine frame 8416 with screws 9490.

The various gaskets of the present invention can be made of elastic materials such as rubber or plastic. Each gasket shown in FIGS. 94 and 95 used in connection with a filter, lens or mirror has an opening through which light can pass.

The LED plate assembly 9428 comprises an LED (not shown) that transmits the excitation light used in the photooptical engine 9402.

The photodiode PCB assembly 9418 comprises a photodiode 9420 that acts as an operation sensor. The photodiode PCB assembly 9418 comprises a female electrical connector 9492 for connecting to a male power jack (not shown) to power the photodiode PCB assembly 9418.

As shown in FIGS. 97, 98 and 99, the LED interconnect PCB assembly 9220 comprises a PCB 9722 electrically connected by an electrical connection 9724 to the LED plate assembly 9428. The LED interconnect PCB assembly 9220 features a power jack 9236 to power LED 10242 of the LED board assembly 9428. The LED interconnect PCB assembly 9220 comprises an assembly body 9732 with an opening 9734 to which the power jack 9236 is installed. The assembly body 9732 includes a complementary recess 9736 in which the PCB9722 is provided and an opening 9738 for accommodating the screw 9224.

When the photo-optical engine is operated or vibrated, the OSL filter optical assembly is also installed in the opening so that it does not substantially operate or vibrate, so FIGS. 94, 95, 96, 97, 100 and 101. OSL filter optics are smaller than many previous filter optics for OSL readers and are less susceptible to misalignment due to movement or vibration.

Although certain types of optical filters have been described above as being used in filter assemblies, optical filters that filter a variety of different colors have wavelengths used as light sources for excitation light and OSLM in the OSL sensor is light. May be used in the optical filter assembly of the present invention depending on the wavelength at which it absorbs. Also mentioned above that certain types of optical filters are used as filters for synchrotron radiation detectors that detect light emitted from OSL sensors, but optical filters that filter a variety of different colors are OSL's. It may be used with the synchrotron radiation detector of the present invention depending on the wavelength at which OSLM emits light.

FIG. 100 shows a photooptical engine 9402 in an assembled arrangement, with part 10012 cut off to show a cross section of the OSL filter optical assembly 9452. The circular region 10014 of portion 10012 of FIG. 100 is shown in more detail in FIG. 101. FIG. 101 provides a cross-sectional view of the OSL filter optical assembly 9452, which is a lower gasket 9456 sandwiched between the bottom of the assembly mount 9454 and the green glass filter 9458, between the green glass filter 9458 and the dichroic mirror 9462. Shows the upper gasket 9464 sandwiched between the middle gasket 9460 and the dichroic mirror 9462 and the upper 9466 assembly mount.

All components of the photo-optical engine are anchored in place on or in the photo-optical engine frame, so the lenses and mirrors of the photo-optical engine in Figures 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 and 101. And the alignment of the filter is also not significantly affected by vibration when the dose meter reader with the photo-optical engine is moved. These components include OSL filter optical assemblies, optical light pipe assemblies, blue glass filters, PMTs, motion sensors, LED plate assemblies and the like. In one embodiment of the invention, an OSL reader using the photo-optical engine of FIGS. 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 and 101 is used to read the OSL while the OSL reader is running. Can be done. Photooptical engine lenses, mirrors and filters have other OSLs, as the small distance between the components maximizes the solid angle that various light beams must pass through for accurate transmission through the optical path. Less subject to misalignment due to vibration than leader lenses, mirrors and filters. Proximity placement of components minimizes loss due to scattering.

In one embodiment of the invention, four (4) AA batteries drive an OSL reader, a drive gear that controls the operation of a thread slider, an electronic control of the dosimeter reader, an electronic sensor of the dosimeter reader, and a dose. It supplies all the power needed to run the dosimeter reader, including the power to run the dosimeter reader's display and the communication port for interfacing with an external database. Battery life depends on the number of analyzes performed, the stimulus protocol used, and the time between analyzes when the reader is idling but powered on. Typically, more than 250 analyzes can be performed on a set of 4AA batteries. In one embodiment of the invention, other types of rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries may be used as the power source for the dosimeter reader. For example, one or more alkaline batteries, one or more lithium batteries, and the like may be used as a power source for the dosimeter reader. In one embodiment, the total weight of one or more batteries is less than about 100 g.

In one embodiment of the invention, the dosimeter reader requires a current or less than about 90 mA per second to read the OSL sensor. In one embodiment of the invention, the dosimeter reader requires a current of 80 mA or less when the dosimeter reader is turned on and idle and ready to read the dosimeter. .. In one embodiment, when the dosimeter reader is turned on, the current in the dosimeter reader can be less than or equal to 235 mA in less than 10 seconds.

In one embodiment of the invention, the dosimeter reader has a dosimeter case in a closed arrangement with a maximum depth of about 19 cm or less, a maximum width of about 23.5 cm or less and a maximum height of about 11 cm or less. In one embodiment, the dosimeter reader has a dosimeter case in a closed arrangement with a total capacity of approximately 3,065 cm.³It has the following:

In one embodiment of the invention, the dosimeter reader comprises a dosimeter reader case and weighs less than about 2,600 g, excluding the weight of one or more batteries that power the dosimeter reader. The dosimeter reader allows it to be carried by one individual. In one embodiment of the invention, the dosimeter reader with the dosimeter reader case of the invention has a weight of less than about 2,700, including the weight of one or more batteries that power the dosimeter reader. Therefore, the dosimeter reader allows it to be carried by one individual.

FIG. 102 shows the OSL reader 7712 and RFID tag reader 7640 of the dosimeter reader 6902 in the operation of reading the dosimeter thread 10204. For the simplicity of the illustration for the OSL reader 7712, only the photo optical engine 9402 of the OSL reader 7712 is shown, and other components of the OSL reader 7712, such as the thread slider 7714, are omitted from Figure 102. The dosimeter thread 10204 comprises three OSL sensors, OSL sensor 10212, OSL sensor 10214 and OSL sensor 10216, and RFID tag 10218. OSL sensors 10212, 10214 and OSL sensor 10216 are Al₂O₃: Equipped with OSLM (not shown) containing C material. The dosimeter thread 10204 is pulled out of the dosimeter (not shown) by the thread slider 7714 in the direction indicated by arrow 10222, with the OSL sensor 10212, OSL sensor 10214 and OSL sensor 10216 at reading position 10226, respectively. , Read in sequence by the OSL reader 7712. FIG. 102 shows the OSL sensor 10212 in the reading process.

The OSL reader 7712 comprises LED10242, which is part of the LED board assembly 9428. LED10232 is a source of transmitted green excitation light 10234 with a wavelength of about 520 nm. The green excitation light 10234 is concentrated by a concentrator 10236, which is part of the LED plate assembly 9428, and then passes through a dichroic mirror 9462 alongside a green glass filter 9458 and a green glass filter 9458. The green glass filter 9458 removes non-green light from the green excitation light 10234, that is, the green glass filter 9458 is a green filter that passes green light. The green excitation light 10234 is then guided by an optical light pipe 8012, the OSL sensor at reading position 10226 (OSL sensor 10212 in FIG. 102) is exposed to the green excitation light 10234, and the OSLM material in the OSL sensor 10212 emits light. And causes it to emit blue synchrotron radiation 10246 with a wavelength of about 420 nm. The blue synchrotron radiation 10246 is reflected by the dichroic mirror 9462 and passes through a blue glass filter 9434 that removes non-blue light from the blue light in the blue synchrotron radiation 10246, that is, the blue glass filter 9434 is a blue filter that passes through blue light. Is. The blue glass filter 9434 also removes any stray or green excitation light 10234 that is not removed by the green glass filter 9458. Blue synchrotron radiation 10246 is then detected and measured by the photocathode 9450 of a photomultiplier tube (PMT) 9216. The PMT9216 operates in photon counting mode and quantifies the luminescence generated in the OSL sensor based on the detected blue synchrotron radiation 10246. A portion of the transmitted green excitation light 10234 is reflected back by the dichroic mirror 9462 through the green glass filter 9458, and the green reflected light 10272 is detected by the actuation sensor / photodiode 9420.

The green excitation light 10234 of FIG. 102 defines the optical path from LED 10242 to OSL sensor 10212. The blue synchrotron radiation 10246 defines the optical path from the OSL sensor 10212 to the photocathode 9450. The excitation light 10234 exits the optical light pipe 8012 at outlet 10282 and travels a distance of 10284 from outlet 10282 to OSL sensor 10212.

Before, during, or after the OSL sensor 10212 is read, the RFID tag reader 7604 reads RFID tag 5418 and retrieves the identification information stored within the RFID tag, as indicated by arrow 10224. This information may be displayed on display 6920 (not shown in Figure 102) or on another display in data communication with the dosimeter reader 6902. After the OSL sensor 10212, OSL sensor 10214 and OSL sensor 10216 are read by the OSL reader 7712, the RFID tag reader 7604 updates the RFID tag 10218 with information based on the readings of the OSL sensor 10212, OSL sensor 10214 and OSL sensor 10216. To do. As each OSL sensor of these three OSL sensors is read, the RFID tag reader 7604 may also send updated information. After the OSL sensor 10212, OSL sensor 10214 and OSL sensor 10216 are read, the thread slider 7714 pushes the dose meter thread 10204 in the direction of arrow 10230 and back into the radiometer.

Database 10292 may, if desired, communicate with the dosimeter reader 6902 or be part of the dosimeter reader 6902. Information about individuals with radiometers and / or radiometers is retrieved from database 10292, as indicated by the dashed arrow 10294. Updated information about the radiometer and / or the individual wearing the radiometer can be sent to database 10296, as indicated by the dashed arrow 10294.

In one embodiment of the invention, at the reading position for the OSL sensors, the OSLM in each OSL sensor is approximately 1 mm from the exit of the optical guide / optical light pipe.

The motion sensor / photodiode of the photo-optical engine of Figure 102 functions when the non-zero reading is received by the motion sensor / photodiode due to the excitation light reflected back to the motion sensor / photodiode. Designed to determine that.

In one embodiment of the invention, the synchrotron radiation detector of FIG. 102 is part of a PMT that uses a sensitive counting system. The amount of blue light emitted during photoexcitation by the green excitation light is directly proportional to the amount of radiation and the intensity of the green excitation light. The dose calculation algorithm is then used in the measurement to determine the exposure outcome.

The photooptical engine of FIG. 102 may use excitation light with various pulse velocities. The photo-optical engine of FIG. 102 can also use various pulse periods of excitation light.

In Figure 102, a particular photooptical engine uses certain transmitted and detected light wavelengths to determine the dose of various types of radiation exposed to a particular type of OSLM, but transmits and detects different wavelengths. Photo-optical engines can be used with different optically excited luminescence materials. The photooptical engine may also be a pulse excitation system.

Figures 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114 and 115 show examples of the reading process of the present invention using the radiometer 102.

Figures 103 and 104 show the radiometer 102 installed at the starting position within the loading / unloading area 6932. The individual installed the radiometer 102 at the starting position 10302, and the C-shaped ridge 7212 (not visible in FIGS. 103 and 104) was associated with the C-shaped groove 454 (not visible in FIGS. 103 and 104) of the radiometer 102. It fits. The diamond recesses 456 and 458 (not visible in Figures 103 and 104) of the dosimeter 102 (not visible in Figures 103 and 104) are the holding tabs 7218 and 7220 (not visible in Figures 103 and 104) of the dosimeter reader 6902, respectively. ) Conforms. The circular alignment symbol 224 of the upper housing 104 is aligned with the alignment dot 7182. The curved arrow 222 indicates the direction in which the upper housing 104 should be rotated in order to remove the upper housing 104 from the lower housing 109 (not visible in FIGS. 103 and 104).

FIG. 105 rotates the upper housing 104 of the radiologist 102 and shows that the radiometer 102 is in rotation position 10502 within the loading / unloading region 6923. By grabbing loops 122 and 124, the individual rotates the upper housing 104 approximately 90 ° until the circular alignment symbol 224 is aligned with the alignment dot 7286, placing the radiometer 102 in rotation position 10502 and the upper housing 104. Removed from the lower housing 106. As the upper housing 104 is rotated, the loop 122 rotates into the receiving slot 7246 of the dosimeter loop retainer 7256 and engages it. Loop 122 is prevented from further rotation by the end wall 7266 and loop stop 7298 of the dosimeter loop retainer 7256. The loop 122 also engages the spring tab 7270 and rests on the base 7268 of the loop retainer 7256. Also, as the upper housing 104 is rotated, the loop 124 rotates into the receiving slot 7272 of the dosimeter loop retainer 7260 (not visible in FIG. 105) and engages it. Loop 124 is prevented from further rotation by the end wall 7274 (not visible in Figure 105) of the dosimeter loop retainer 7260 and the loop stop 7298. The loop 122 also engages the spring tab 7278 (not visible in FIG. 105) and rests on the base 7276 (not visible in FIG. 105) of the loop retainer 7260. While the upper housing 104 is rotated, the lower housing 106 (not visible in FIG. 105) is associated with the C-shaped groove 454 (not visible in FIG. 105) and the C-shaped ridge 7212 (not visible in FIG. 105) of the dosimeter 102. The engagement of the diamond recesses 456 and 458 (not visible in Figure 105) and the holding tabs 7218 and 7220 of the dosimeter reader 6902 (not visible in Figure 105) prevent rotation. FIG. 105 shows the lift 8 shown in FIGS. 88 and 89.

The user pushes in the drawer handle 7204 of the dosimeter drawer 3914, and the radiation meter 102 is moved into the work area housing 7294 by the drawer base 7202. As the radiometer 102 is pushed into the work area housing 7294, the retention tabs 7218 and 7220 extend outward, foot 7236 on the outer leg 7232 of the retention tab 7218 and foot 7246 on the outer leg 7242 of the retention tab 7220. Engages the devaluations 10602 and 10604 of the diamond recesses 456 and 458, respectively, as shown in FIG. As described in more detail above with respect to FIGS. 90 and 91, the retention tabs 7218 and 7220 interact with the retention tabs 7218 and 7220 and the openings 7222 and 7224 at the drawer base 7202 and the curved slots 9032 and 9034 of the pinion gear 8622. Due to their action, they spread outward from each other. In the condition shown in FIG. 106, the foot 7236 captures the lip 10612 of the diamond recess 456, and the foot 7246 captures the lip 10614 of the diamond recess 458, whereby the dosimeter 102 captures the dosimeter loading / unloading. As the upper housing 104 (not shown in FIG. 106) is lifted from the lower housing 106 as it is moved from area 6923 to the dosimeter working area 6934, the holding tab 7218 and holding tab 7220 move the lower housing 106 onto the drawer base 7202. Allows you to hold. Retention tabs 7218 and 7220 interact with the retention tabs 7218 and 7220 and the curved slots 9032 and 9034 of the pinion gear 8622, respectively, as the pinion gear 8622 moves along the rack 8634, as described above with respect to FIGS. 93 and 94. By action, it spreads outward.

Specific combinations of complementary lower housing anti-rotation engagement structures, i.e., C-shaped recesses on the lower housing that engage the C-shaped ridges on the drawer base, are shown in FIGS. 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, Although used in embodiments of the invention set forth in 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114 and 115, other combinations of anti-rotation engagement structures may be used in the present invention. For example, the drawer base may include two or more posts, and the lower housing may include recesses for receiving and engaging the posts.

Specific combinations of lower housing holding structures, namely holding tabs that engage the lips and devaluations of the diamond recess, are shown in FIGS. 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114 and Although used in the embodiments of the present invention set forth in 115, other combinations of square housing holding structures may be used in the present invention.

FIG. 107 shows the radiometer 102 at rotational position 10502 of FIG. 105 from the side. FIG. 108 shows that the radiometer 102 is moved into the work area housing 7294 by the drawer base 7202. As shown in FIG. 108, the upper housing 104 has loop retainers 7256 and 7260 moved into the work area housing 7294 by the drawer base 7202 (not visible in FIG. 108). It is lifted above the lower housing 106 that is lifted by. FIG. 109 shows the radiation meter 102 further moved within the work area housing 7294 by the drawer base 7202, and the lower housing by the loop retainers 7256 and 7260 being further raised by the loop retainer lift 8612 (not visible in FIG. 109). The upper housing 104 further lifted from 106 is shown. The foam cushion 7296 has been removed from FIG. 109 to show more details of the upper housing 104 and the lower housing 106.

Figures 110, 111 and 112 show the drawer base 7202 fully tucked into the work area housing 7294. To show the dosimeter at dosimeter preparation position 11102 in the dosimeter work area 6934 of the dosimeter reader 6902, the housing cover 6940 is shown removed in FIG. 111. At the dosimeter preparation position 11102, the dosimeter 102 is fully protected from light by the work area housing 7294, housing cover 6940 and drawer housing 7206. The upper housing 104 is completely lifted above the lower housing 104 by loop retainers 7256 and 7260 at the dosimeter preparation position 11102. Figures 110, 111 and 112 also show how the proximal flap 8440 forms a floor under the opening 7402.

FIG. 112 shows how the lower housing 106 and the dosimeter thread 600 interact with the various components of the dosimeter reader 6902 at the dosimeter preparation position 11102, with the upper housing 104 removed. The dosimeter 102 at the prepared dosimeter preparation position 11102 is shown. At dosimeter preparation position 11102, the bifurcated tongue 8034 of the thread slider 7714 engages the U-shaped detent 678 of the dosimeter thread 600, and the U-shaped detent 8042 of the thread slider 7714 engages the tongue 679 of the dosimeter thread 600. Fit, and the pusher end 8040 of the slider 7714 is adjacent to the end side 668 of the dosimeter thread 600. The engagement of the bifurcated tongue 8034 with the U-shaped return stopper 678 and the engagement of the U-shaped return stopper 8042 with the tongue 679 are such that the slider 4214 and the dose meter thread 600 are pulled out linearly into the reading area 6936. Make it possible. At dosimeter preparation position 11102, the lower housing 106 is subsequently prevented from rotating by the C-shaped ridge 7212, which engages with the C-shaped groove 454. At dosimeter preparation position 11102, the lower housing 106 is subsequently held on the drawer base 7202 by capturing the respective lips 10612 and 10614 of the diamond recesses 456 and 458 from the holding tabs 7218 and 7220.

The position of the drawer base 7202 shown in FIGS. 110, 111 and 112 corresponds to the position of the lift 8412 shown in FIGS. 88 and 89.

FIG. 113 shows the dosimeter thread 600 pulled into the dosimeter reading area 6936 from the thread recess 412 of the lower housing 106 through the opening 8052 in the wall 7708 by the thread slider 7714 (not visible in FIG. 113).

Figure 114 shows for the comparator OSL sensor 630, where the OSL reader 7712 (not visible in Figure 114) is directly below the OSL sensor 630 and the exposed side 658 of the OSLM 652 (not visible in Figure 114) is exposed to the OSL reader 7712. The dosimeter thread 600 pulled out to reading position 11402 is shown. The positioning notch 684 (not visible in Figure 114) is lined up with alignment symbol 8022 and alignment symbol 8030. At reading position 11402, RFID tag 660 is also read by RFID tag reader 7604 (in Figure 114, removed to show the more detailed internal dosimeter reading area 6936).

Figure 115 is directly below the OSL reader 7712 (not visible in Figure 115) OSL sensor 628, and the reading position for the reference OSL sensor 628 where the exposed side 650 of the OSLM 642 (not visible in Figure 115) is exposed to the OSL reader 7712. The dosimeter thread 600 pulled out to 11502 is shown. The positioning notch 682 (not visible in Figure 115) is aligned with the alignment symbol 8022 and alignment symbol 8030. At reading position 11502, the etched alignment symbol 11512 on the dosimeter thread 600 for OSL sensor 628 is aligned with alignment symbol 8022 and alignment symbol 8030. FIG. 115 also shows the etched alignment symbol 11514 on the dosimeter thread 600 for the OSL sensor 626.

After the reference OSL sensor 628 is read, the slider 7714 pulls the dosimeter thread 600 to a reading position (not shown) where the neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 626 is read on the OSL reader 7712. At the reading position for the neutron-sensitive OSL sensor 626, the exposed side 640 of the OSLM 632 is exposed to the OSL reader 7712. In the reading position for the OSL sensor 626, the positioning notch 680 is aligned with the alignment symbol 8022 and the alignment symbol 8030. Also, at the reading position for the OSL sensor 626, the etched alignment symbol 11514 is aligned with the alignment symbol 8022 and the alignment symbol 8030.

After the comparator OSL sensor 630, reference OSL sensor 628 and neutron sensitive OSL sensor 626 are read by the OSL reader 7712, respectively, the thread slider 7714 identifies the dosimeter thread 600 as shown in Figures 110, 111 and 112. Push back into the thread recess 412 of the lower housing 106 with the configuration of. By pulling on the drawer handle 7204, the drawer handle 7204 can then be pulled back and the drawer base 7202 is in the dosimeter loading / unloading area 6932 with the same configuration as shown in FIGS. 105 and 107. As the drawer base 7202 is moved in the direction of the dose meter loading / unloading area 6932, the dose counting housing 104 is lowered by lowering the loop returners 7256 and 7260 by the loop returner lift 8612. Also, as the dosimeter 102 drawer base 7202 is moved in the direction of the dosimeter loading / unloading area 6932, the retention tabs 7218 and 7220 retract inward, and the outer leg 7232 foot 7236 and retention tab 7220 of the retention tab 7218. The foot 7246 of the outer leg 7242 of the outer leg no longer engages the devaluations 10602 and 10604 of the diamond recesses 456 and 458, respectively. Once the radiologist 102 is returned to the dosimeter loading / unloading area 6932, the upper housing 104 grabs the loop by the individual grabbing the loops 122 and 124 and faces the curved arrow 222 on the upper housing 104. Can be screwed onto the lower housing 106 by rotating 90 ° in the direction, the dosimeter 102 is in the configuration shown in FIGS. 103 and 104. The radiometer 102 can then be removed from the drawer base 7202.

<p> Dosimeter tests were performed to measure the response of three OSL sensors to radiation of different energies.</p><p> Dose from gamma or X-rays with average energies of 53 keV, 73 keV, 118 keV, 162 keV, and 662 keV to a group of 5 dosimeters at a deep dose of 50 mrem (5 mSv) (Hp10, or at a depth of 10 mm in tissue). Irradiated to (defined as). A dosimeter was mounted on a cylindrical model representing a wrist composed of polymethylmethacrylate, 7.3 cm in diameter and 45 cm in height. After exposure, the dosimeter was read using a dosimeter reader of the type shown above and in the drawing. Figure 116 plots average emission in units of photon counts per mrem of delivered deep dose for each of the three OSL sensors in the dosimeter. The sensor labeled Al refers to an OSL sensor consisting of one energy compensating cup made of aluminum with a PTFE conversion filter between the OSLM and the aluminum cup. Similarly, a CuT-labeled sensor refers to an OSL sensor consisting of an aluminum internal energy compensation cup and a copper external filling cup with a PTFE conversion filter between the OSLM and the aluminum internal cup. CuP-labeled sensors are similar to CuT sensors, except that the HDPE neutron conversion filter replaces the PTFE conversion filter. The Al sensor shows an increased response to X-rays with energy less than 100 keV, which shows the energy compensation effect of the copper outer cup. FIG. 117 represents similar data normalized to the response for a 662 keV gamma ray. This shows the energy compensation effect of the filter, which produces a similar response per unit dose at all energies tested. FIG. 118 shows the relative response of the Al and CuP sensors to the reference sensor CuT. This graph shows that the gamma and X-ray responses between CuT and CuP sensors are comparable, and the response at CuP that is larger than that measured for CuT can be due to the neutron dose.</p><p> While the present invention is disclosed with reference to certain embodiments, many modifications, substitutions and conversions to the described embodiments deviate from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. It is possible without. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, and is intended to have all the scope defined by the wording of the following claims and their equivalents.</p>