Researchers at MIT and the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed an innovative approach for radiation detection that utilizes a Tetris-inspired design. Leveraging artificial intelligence, the new method employs simplified sensor configurations to accurately pinpoint radiation sources while requiring fewer components compared to traditional systems. The technology could enable low-cost and precise monitoring of nuclear sites, addressing urgent needs highlighted by recent events such as the Fukushima disaster. Key advancements include a new framework that enhances directional detection and mapping of radioactive sources using as few as four sensor pixels, aided by inter-pixel padding to improve data contrast. Field tests demonstrated its effectiveness in localizing radiation sources, potentially revolutionizing safety measures in nuclear industries. The research has broad applicability, extending to various radiation types beyond gamma rays, and aims to enhance the response capabilities for radiological incidents. The study's findings were published in the journal Nature.
Mon, 25 Nov 2024 10:51:00 GMT | Interesting Engineering