Fast gated superconducting nanowire camera for multi-functional optical tomograph

Introduction

Traditionally, monitoring of organs and deep body functional imaging is done by ultrasound, X-Rays (including CT), PET, or MRI. These techniques only allow for very limited measurements of functionality, usually combined with exogenous and radioactive agents.

Project Proposal

In this project, we propose an innovative light sensing solution: a fast gated, ultra-high quantum efficiency single-photon sensor. This sensor aims to enable multi-functional deep body imaging with diffuse optics.

Sensor Technology

The new type of sensor is based on superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors, which have shown to be ultra-fast and highly efficient. However, until now, the active area and number of pixels have been limited to micrometers in diameter and tens of pixels.

Overcoming Limitations

We propose the combination of two new readout techniques:

1. Optical gating
2. Charge coupling

These techniques will help overcome the current limitations and scale to 10,000 pixels and millimeter diameter.

Development Strategies

In addition, we will develop new strategies for performing TD-NIRS and TD-SCOS to utilize this new light sensor optimally with Monte-Carlo simulations.

Implementation and Expected Outcomes

We will implement the new light sensor in an optical tomograph and achieve a 100x improvement of SNR compared to using existing light sensors.

Conclusion

With our proposed Multifunctional Optical Tomograph, we will be able to image deep organ and optical structures and monitor functions including:

• Oxygenation
• Haemodynamics
• Perfusion
• Metabolism