John M Timothy

US Patent:

40705781, Jan 24, 1978

Filed:

Jul 30, 1976

Appl. No.:

5/710178

Inventors:

John G. Timothy - Boston MA
Richard Lee Bybee - Boulder CO

International Classification:

G01T 129

US Classification:

250336

Abstract:

A detector array and method are disclosed in which plural sets of electrode elements are provided with each set comprising a plurality of linear extending parallel electrodes. The sets of electrode elements are disposed at an angle (preferably orthogonal) with respect to one another so that the individual elements intersect and overlap individual elements of the other sets. Electrical insulation is provided between the overlapping elements. The thus configured detector array is exposed to a source of charged particles which in accordance with one embodiment comprise electrons derived from a microchannel array plate exposed to photons. Amplifier and discriminator means are provided for each individual electrode element. Detection means is provided to sense pulses on individual electrode elements in the sets, with coincidence of pulses on individual intersecting electrode elements being indicative of charged particle impact at the intersection of the elements. Electronic readout means are provided to provide an indication of coincident events and the location where the charged particle or particles impacted.