Optical detector development
Two detector systems under development: the dome detector and optiXphere.
Why measure light from multiple directions
In a UV-C treatment system, light can reach a location directly from the source and after reflection from surrounding surfaces. Our detector research explores how to characterize that light field, including light arriving from multiple directions.
A conventional flat sensor measures light incident on its sensing surface. The optiXphere project investigates a near-spherical collection geometry. Its response to light arriving from different angles is a central development question.
Dome detector
The dome detector is a separate optical detector system under development within our microelectronics grant work. It measures ultraviolet light in the UV-A and UV-B range, about 235 to 400 nm, while optiXphere covers about 180 to 320 nm.
optiXphere approach
Collect. The research design uses a near-spherical fused-silica head with openings in a reflective coating to admit light from multiple directions.
Shape the response. The arrangement of openings and the optical behavior inside the head are being developed to improve the uniformity of response with angle.
Detect. Collected light is guided along a shaft to a UV-C-sensitive detector. Calibration and angular-response testing are needed to characterize the measurement.
Development status
Both detector systems are in development. Earlier optiXphere work explored substrate fabrication, reflective coatings and patterning methods. Current work continues the development of the detector program.
FuzeHub Microelectronics Innovation Challenge
In February 2025, a project involving tomPhyzx LLC and the Cornell Center for Materials Research received a $60,000 award through the New York State Microelectronics Innovation Challenge, run by FuzeHub and NORDTECH. The award came from the Jeff Lawrence Innovation Fund. The initiative is supported by NYSTAR and the U.S. Department of Defense.
The award announcement describes development of a compact detector for measuring ultraviolet light from multiple directions. Read the announcement
Research focus
Optical measurement and detector development
Characterization of light fields in UV-C systems
Fabrication, coatings and prototype development
Testing and calibration with research and development partners
Collaborators
The award names the Cornell Center for Materials Research as the project partner. Earlier optiXphere research is documented through Cornell NanoScale Science and Technology Facility work. FuzeHub and NORDTECH administer the microelectronics initiative.
Technical papers
Prototype Evaluation of a Phone-Based UV-C Exposure Detector (2025)
Optical Power Density Measurement System in Units of mW/cm³ (2023)
Earlier papers were published under uvcPhyzx Corporation; their contact details may be out of date.
Related research
Our detector work sits within a broader research portfolio that includes controlled environment agriculture, personal protection and air treatment. Emerging upper-air work explores how directed room airflow can carry air through an upper UV-C treatment region. Further development and evaluation are needed.
Controlled environment agriculture. We are developing technology and intellectual property for managed growing environments.
Handheld personal protection. We are developing a handheld personal-protection device using a new technological approach.
Upper-air airflow research. The coWANduc concept explores directing room airflow through an upper UV-C treatment region. This is an emerging area requiring further development and evaluation.
Work with us
We welcome conversations about detector development, fabrication, testing and potential technology partnerships.