Abstract
The University of Central Florida invention is a method that cost-effectively restores infrared (IR) image sensors damaged by radiation. The
new radiation-defect mitigation technology quickly repairs and prolongs the life of IR sensors, such as long-wavelength IR
detectors deployed in near-Earth orbits. Companies can implement the method via software, without affecting the
weight or volume of a detector’s electronics. Additionally, the restoration process requires only the voltages and currents of
commercial off-the-shelf read-out-integrated-circuits (ROICs) used by the sensor.
Whether exposed to a single burst of radiation (such as gamma rays) or to several smaller doses, an IR detector can suffer
damage that significantly degrades its photoresponse capability and performance. With the UCF invention, a detector’s
photoresponse can be restored to pre-irradiation levels in seconds and stably maintain it without undue inoperative
periods.
Technical Details
The invention encompasses a defect-mitigation strategy for restoring and maintaining the photoresponse of radiation-damaged
IR detectors. Essentially, the strategy uses a purely electrical, in-situ radiation-hardening treatment that does not
require changes to hardware or any increase in a sensor’s size or weight. The treatment only minimally affects power
requirements, as well. Companies can use the strategy on a wide range of detector designs, such as InAs/GaSb Type-II
SLS detectors. In one example application of the invention, a GaSb/InAs Type-II SLS sensing circuit receives treatment
via software remotely and automatically during the usual dead time between image frames. The process uses only voltages and
currents available from standard ROICs for the sensor.
Benefit
Enables sensors to survive and reliably operate in high radiation environments, such as space, without increasing weight or decreasing performanceCan be part of the standard biasing and read-out protocol for SLS detectorsEasy to implement via softwareMarket Application
Infrared imagers for missile defensePlanetary explorationImaging in a radiative environment such as nuclear reactor facilities
Brochure