Title: Ferroelectric infrared detector and method

Abstract

An apparatus and method are provided for sensing infrared radiation. The apparatus includes a sensor element that is positioned in a magnetic field during operation to ensure a .lamda. shaped relationship between specific heat and temperature adjacent the Curie temperature of the ferroelectric material comprising the sensor element. The apparatus is operated by inducing a magnetic field on the ferroelectric material to reduce surface charge on the element during its operation.

Inventors:

Lashley, Jason Charles ^[1]; Opeil, Cyril P ^[2]; Smith, James Lawrence ^[3]

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+ Show Inventor Affiliations

1. Sante Fe, NM
2. Chestnut Hill, MA
3. Los Alamos, NM

Issue Date:

2010-03-30

Research Org.:

Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), Los Alamos, NM (United States)

Sponsoring Org.:

USDOE

OSTI Identifier:

1014393

Patent Number(s):

7687775

Application Number:

US Patent Application 11/961,815

Assignee:

Los Alamos National Security, LLC (Los Alamos, NM)

Patent Classifications (CPCs):

G - PHYSICS G01 - MEASURING G01J - MEASUREMENT OF INTENSITY, VELOCITY, SPECTRAL CONTENT, POLARISATION, PHASE OR PULSE CHARACTERISTICS OF INFRA-RED, VISIBLE OR ULTRA-VIOLET LIGHT

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G - PHYSICS G01 - MEASURING G01J - MEASUREMENT OF INTENSITY, VELOCITY, SPECTRAL CONTENT, POLARISATION, PHASE OR PULSE CHARACTERISTICS OF INFRA-RED, VISIBLE OR ULTRA-VIOLET LIGHT

G01J2005/345 - {Arrays}
G01J5/0806 - {using focussing or collimating elements, e.g. lenses or mirrors}
G01J5/0875 - {Windows or their fastening arrangements}
G01J5/34 - using capacitors {, e.g. pyroelectric elements}

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DOE Contract Number:  

AC52-06NA25396

Resource Type:

Patent

Country of Publication:

United States

Language:

English