Algorithm Implementation for a Prototype Time-Encoded Signature Detector

The authors constructed a prototype Time-Encoded Signature (TES) system, complete with automated detection algorithms that can be used to detect point-like gamma-ray sources in search applications where detectors observe large variability in background count rates beyond statistical (Poisson) noise. The person-carried system consists of two cesium iodide scintillators placed on opposite sides of a lead shield. This geometry mitigates systematic background variation and induces a unique signature upon encountering point-like sources. This manuscript focuses on the development of detection algorithms that identify point-source signatures while remaining computationally simple. The latter constraint derives from the instrument´s mobile (and thus low power) operation. The authors evaluated algorithms using both simulated and field data. The results of this analysis demonstrate the capability to detect sources at a wide range of source-detector distances using computationally simple algorithms.