Confocal pinhole disk pattern configured for enhanced operation and an imaging device and process for implementing the same

Abstract

An imaging component configured to be implemented in an imaging device includes a pinhole disk configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device; and pinhole apertures in the pinhole disk. Additionally, the pinhole apertures are arranged in the pinhole disk in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral; and the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a non-Archimedean spiral.

Description

PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCTCONFOCAL PINHOLE DISK PATTERN CONFIGURED FOR ENHANCED OPERATION AND AN IMAGING DEVICE AND PROCESS FOR IMPLEMENTING THE SAMECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit from U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 704,603 filed on October s, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes as if fully set forth herein.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The disclosure relates to a confocal pinhole disk pattern configured for enhanced operation. The disclosure further relates to an imaging device implementing a confocal pinhole disk pattern configured for enhanced operation. The disclosure additionally relates to a process for implementing a confocal pinhole disk pattern configured for enhanced operation. The disclosure further relates to a process for implementing an imaging device implementing a confocal pinhole disk pattern configured for enhanced operation.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] Numerous image scanning devices, such as a scanning confocal optical microscopes, utilize a Nipkow disk. Typically, a Nipkow disk has a plurality of pinholes to project light and an objective lens to receive the light and illuminate points on an object to be viewed. More specifically, a Nipkow disk scanning microscope typically utilizes a method of moving an aperture pattern to capture a three-dimensional image of a target. The method is commonly used in both biological imaging and industrial metrology. Rotation of the disk scans the points across the object. The object is viewed by viewing a reflected light focused on the pinholes by the objective lens. An exemplary operation thereof is disclosed in further detail in US Patent Number 4,927,254 incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.

[0004] Many different aperture patterns have been used, the most common pattern is an array of small pinholes arrayed on one or more Archimedean spirals. This pattern has the advantage of being simple to design, but has the disadvantage of requiring a long exposure time for the pinhole pattern to evenly fill in the image, which results in slow image capture and slow scanning speeds.PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT

[0005] Accordingly, a device and process are needed to increase a speed of image capture, scanning, and / or the like.

[0006] The following provides additional context for the disclosure with reference to typical implementations of current imaging systems 1 . In particular, a Nipkow disk 2 having a pinhole pattern 3 consistent with an Archimedean spiral 8 as typically implemented in current imaging systems 1 is illustrated in Figure 9.

[0007] In particular, the Archimedean spiral 8 in Figure 9 is implemented with a single enlarged spiral to more easily illustrate and explain a geometry of the Archimedean spiral 8 and the pinhole pattern 3 in current imaging systems 1 . In this regard, the pinhole pattern 3 is arranged in alignment with the Archimedean spiral 8 on the Nipkow disk 2. Further, the pinhole pattern 3 includes a plurality of pinholes 5. In this regard, for clarity of understanding, only one exemplary implementation of the plurality of pinholes 5 is referenced in the figures.

[0008] The Archimedean spiral 8 may be defined in polar coordinates (r, 6) by the equation: r = b ■ 0, where r is a radial distance, 0 is an angular coordinate or polar angle, and b is a real number. Changing the parameter b controls a distance between loops. In this regard, the Archimedean spiral has the property that any ray from the origin intersects successive turnings of the spiral in points with a constant separation distance 10. In other words, the Archimedean spiral 8 has the property that successive turnings of the spiral have a constant separation distance 10.

[0009] In this regard, the pinhole pattern 3 in current imaging systems 1 is arranged consistent with r = b • 0. Accordingly, the pinhole pattern 3 in the current imaging systems 1 is arranged in successive turnings of each spiral and have a constant separation distance 10.

[0010] A more typical implementation of the current imaging systems 1 that implement the Nipkow disk 2 having the pinhole pattern 3 is illustrated in Figure 10. In this regard, the Nipkow disk 2 is constructed with four Archimedean spirals. Further, Figure 1 1 illustrates a further close-up view of the Nipkow disk 2 having the pinhole pattern 3 showing the Archimedean pattern of pinholes of the current imaging systems 1.

[0011] These more typical implementations likewise arrange the pinhole pattern 3 consistent with r = b • 0. Accordingly, the pinhole pattern 3 in current imaging systems 1 arranged in successive turnings of the spiral and have a constantPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT separation distance 10. Moreover, with a plurality of implementations of the Archimedean spiral 8, the constant separation distance 10 would be applicable for each separate implementation of the Archimedean spiral 8.

[0012] As illustrated in Figure 11 , a line 4 shows a path seen by a single camera pixel as the Nipkow disk 2 spins. In this regard, the pixel receives light only when it is aligned with one of a plurality of pinholes 5 arranged in the Nipkow disk 2. Accordingly, a pattern of light 6 received by a camera pixel of the current imaging systems 1 during a single rotation of the Nipkow disk 2 is illustrated in Figure 12. In this case, a disk with twelve Archimedean spirals. Note that the pattern of light 6 is received in short bursts, one as each spiral crosses the pixel location. This presents a problem. In particular, to obtain consistent image levels, the current imaging systems 1 must expose the camera for a long enough time to average out many spirals.

[0013] In this regard, another way to explain the problem is to obtain a spectrum 7 as illustrated in Figure 13. In this regard, the spectrum 7 is the Fourier Transform of the pattern of light 6 illustrated in Figure 12. Figure 13 shows a very strong peak at approximately twelve cycles per rotation. By the Nyquist criteria, the image must be changing at rates slower than half of this.

[0014] Additionally, a spectrum of pinhole sampling in Archimedean spirals 9 as implemented by current imaging systems 1 is illustrated in Figure 14. In this example the number of Archimedean spirals has been increased to 72 spirals, this increases the sampling rate beyond the 12 spiral shown in Figure 12 and Figure 13. A cross-section of variability of pinhole fill in Archimedean spirals 11 implemented by current imaging systems 1 is illustrated in Figure 15; in this simulated image cross section the camera exposure time has been set to 5% of the disk rotation time, with such a short exposure the pinholes fail to fill in evenly. This results in an image marred by large variability in illumination level. The standard deviation of the image level is 12.4% of the mean image level. Both the spectrum of pinhole sampling in Archimedean spirals 9 and the cross-section of variability of pinhole fill in Archimedean spirals 11 are generated based on 72 spirals.

[0015] In an attempt to achieve faster image capture, microscope manufacturers have resorted to extremely high disk rotation rates, often at approximately 15,000 rpm, and increasing the number of spirals on the disk. NeitherPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT of these solutions as ideal. In this regard, fast rotation rates require careful balancing of the rotating mass and can result in shorter system life, as the number of spirals is increased the pinholes have less overlap resulting in poorer image uniformity.

[0016] The disclosure is directed to a pinhole disk implementing a pinhole pattern that, in part, may find inspiration from plant growth. In particular, the disclosure is directed to disk having a pattern of pinholes that may be arranged in a Fermat spiral. In this regard, plants likewise demonstrate such a pattern of certain features in a Fermat spiral. Further, the disclosure is directed to disk having a pattern of pinholes that may be arranged in a non-Archimedean spiral. Additionally the disclosure is directed to disk having a pattern of pinholes that may be arranged in a higher efficiency scanning pattern. Further, the disclosure is directed to disk having a pattern of pinholes that may be arranged and configured to provide a more even sampling pattern. Additionally, the disclosure is directed to disk having a pattern of pinholes that may be arranged and configured according to disclosed geometric arrangements that provide a higher efficiency scanning pattern and / or a more even sampling pattern.

[0017] In this regard, the pattern of pinholes arranged in a Fermat spiral may fill in the sampling pattern more evenly. Moreover, the pattern of pinholes arranged in a Fermat spiral may allow faster image capture in an imaging system, such as a confocal microscope.

[0018] It has been found that having a pattern of pinholes arranged in Fermat spiral results in an imaging device that samples at a much higher rate. Moreover, having a pattern of pinholes arranged in Fermat spiral results in an improvement in filling in the sampling pattern more evenly. Accordingly, having a pattern of pinholes arranged in Fermat spiral may have a sampling rate that is much higher than seen with pinholes arranged in Archimedean spiral, allowing faster image acquisition. Similar improvements may be achieved in the other patterns of pinholes of the disclosure.

[0019] In further aspects, instead of a rotating disk having a pattern of pinholes, the pattern of pinholes may be moved laterally during the image collection. To achieve this the spiral pattern is unwound into a rectangular pattern. This can be done by modeling the spiral patterns (as described here) at a large radius, then taking only an annular sector where the difference between the outer and inner radiiPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT of the sector is small compared with the inner radius of the sector. By using only a narrow annular sector, the annular sector can be straightened out into a rectangle. The distortion of this straightening out of the annular sector can be made arbitrarily small by modeling the sector as part of an arbitrarily large pinhole disk. This rectangle can then be scanned laterally, scanning in what was formerly the theta direction, what was formerly the radial direction is orthogonal to the scan direction. By mapping a segment of the disk onto a rectangular region all of the benefits described for the new pattern can be achieved with non-rotating pinhole apertures.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0020] In one aspect, an imaging component includes a pinhole disk configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device. The imaging component in addition includes pinhole apertures in the pinhole disk. The imaging component moreover includes where the pinhole apertures are arranged in the pinhole disk in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component also includes where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a non-Archimedean spiral.

[0021] In one aspect, an imaging component includes a pinhole disk configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device. The imaging component in addition includes pinhole apertures in the pinhole disk. The imaging component moreover includes where the pinhole apertures are arranged in the pinhole disk in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component also includes where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a Fermat spiral.

[0022] In one aspect, an imaging component includes a pinhole support configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device. The imaging component in addition includes pinhole apertures in the pinhole support. The imaging component moreover includes where the pinhole apertures are arranged in the pinhole support in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component also includes where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a non-Archimedean spiral.

[0023] In one aspect, an imaging component includes a pinhole support configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device. The imaging component in addition includes pinhole apertures in the pinhole support. ThePATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT imaging component moreover includes where the pinhole apertures are arranged in the pinhole support in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component also includes where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a Fermat spiral.

[0024] In one aspect, a process includes providing a pinhole disk configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device. The process in addition includes arranging pinhole apertures in the pinhole disk in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral. The process moreover includes where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a non-Archimedean spiral.

[0025] In one aspect, a process includes providing a pinhole disk configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device. The process in addition includes arranging pinhole apertures in the pinhole disk in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral. The process moreover includes where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a Fermat spiral.

[0026] There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, certain aspects of the disclosure in order that the detailed description thereof herein may be better understood, and in order that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are, of course, additional aspects of the disclosure that will be described below and which will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto.

[0027] In this respect, before explaining at least one aspect of the disclosure in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosure is capable of aspects in addition to those described and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein, as well as the abstract, are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0028] As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception upon which this disclosure is based may readily be utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods and systems for carrying out the severalPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT purposes of the disclosure. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary imaging device implementing a pinhole disk according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0030] Figure 2 illustrates a top view of the pinhole disk according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0031] Figure 3 illustrates a top view of a pinhole disk according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0032] Figure 4 illustrates a close-up view of the pinhole disk according to Figure 3.

[0033] Figure 5 graphically illustrates a pattern of light received by the pinhole disk according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0034] Figure 6 illustrates a spectrum of pinhole sampling in the pinhole disk according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0035] Figure 7 illustrates a cross-section of variability of pinhole fill of the pinhole disk according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0036] Figure 8 illustrates an exemplary imaging process implementing a pinhole disk according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0037] Figure 9 illustrates a top view of a simplified Archimedean spiral pinhole disk aperture arrangement implemented by current imaging systems.

[0038] Figure 10 illustrates a top view of a typical Archimedean spiral pinhole disk aperture arrangement implemented by current imaging systems.

[0039] Figure 11 partially illustrates a close-up view of the typical Archimedean spiral pinhole disk aperture arrangement implemented by current imaging systems.

[0040] Figure 12 graphically illustrates a pattern of light received by a typical Archimedean spiral pinhole disk aperture arrangement implemented by current imaging systems.

[0041] Figure 13 graphically illustrates a spectrum of light received by a typical Archimedean spiral pinhole disk aperture arrangement implemented by current imaging systems.PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT

[0042] Figure 14 illustrates a spectrum of pinhole sampling in Archimedean spirals implemented by current imaging systems.

[0043] Figure 15 illustrates a cross-section of variability of pinhole fill in Archimedean spirals implemented by current imaging systems.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] The disclosure will now be described with reference to the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout.

[0045] Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary imaging device implementing a pinhole disk according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0046] In particular, Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary imaging device 200 implementing a pinhole disk 100 implementing pinhole apertures 102 arranged in a spiral according to the disclosure.

[0047] In aspects, the pinhole disk 100 implementing the pinhole apertures 102 may be arranged in a Fermat spiral, a non-Archimedean spiral, a higher efficiency scanning pattern spiral, a spiral arranged and configured to provide a more even sampling pattern, a spiral arranged and configured to provide a higher efficiency scanning pattern, and / or a geometric spiral configured to provide a higher efficiency scanning pattern and / or a more even sampling pattern.

[0048] In aspects, the pinhole disk 100 implementing the pinhole apertures 102 may be arranged in a spiral having a higher efficiency scanning pattern than a Archimedean spiral, a spiral arranged and configured to provide a more even sampling pattern than a Archimedean spiral, a spiral arranged and configured to provide a higher efficiency scanning pattern than a Archimedean spiral, a geometric spiral configured to provide a higher efficiency scanning pattern, a more even sampling pattern, and / or the like than a Archimedean spiral.

[0049] In aspects, the pinhole apertures 102 may extend through the pinhole disk 100. In aspects, the pinhole apertures 102 may extend from a first surface 111 of the pinhole disk 100 to a second surface 112 of the pinhole disk 100. In aspects, the pinhole apertures 102 may extend through the pinhole disk 100 parallel to the Z axis. In aspects, the pinhole apertures 102 may form an opening on the first surface 111 of the pinhole disk 100 and an opening on the second surface 112 of the pinhole disk 100.PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT

[0050] In aspects, the imaging device 200 may be a confocal microscope, a confocal sensor, an area scan 3D confocal sensor, and / or the like. In aspects, the imaging device 200 may have temporal modulation. In aspects, the imaging device 200 may include a light source 204, a detector 270, and / or the like. A light from the light source 204 may be projected onto the pinhole disk 100 implementing an array of the pinhole apertures 102 arranged according to the disclosure. Further, the pinhole disk 100 may be rotated, for example by a motor 208 and / or the like. In aspects, the pinhole disk 100 may be rotated.

[0051] In aspects, the imaging device 200 may optionally include a number of additional imaging and / or optical components 206 that may include one or more lens, condenser lens, beam splitters, tunable lens, and / or the like. The optical components 206 may form an imaging system to image the pinhole apertures 102 of the pinhole disk 100 onto an object 400. A light reflected from the object 400 may be imaged back onto the pinhole disk 100 by the optical components 206. Thereafter, the optical components 206 may provide the light to the detector 270.

[0052] In this regard, optical sectioning properties of confocal microscopes and / or the optical components 206 and a reflected light transmitted through the pinhole apertures 102 of the pinhole disk 100 may have a peak intensity when a point on the object 400 is in best focus and the intensity will decrease rapidly away from best focus.

[0053] In aspects, the detector 270 may be a camera, a camera detector, a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) area array with a two- dimensional array of pixels, a CCD (charge-coupled device) area array with a two- dimensional array of pixels, a line scan sensor or a time delay integration (TDI) sensor, and / or the like. In aspects, the light source 204 may be, but is not limited to, a LED (light emitting diode), a solid state laser, an incandescent light source, and / or the like. In aspects, the object 400 may be conveyed by a stage assembly 251 . In aspects, the stage assembly 251 may include one or more linear stages, rotary stages, and / or the like.

[0054] In another aspect of the imaging device 200, a rotating implementation of the pinhole disk 100 may be replaced by a linear array of the pinhole apertures 102 (not shown) arranged as disclosed herein. In this regard, the linear array of the pinhole apertures 102 may be linearly translated. As previously noted, this can bePATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT done by modeling the spiral patterns (as described here) at a large radius, then taking only an annular sector where the difference between the outer and inner radii of the sector is small compared with the inner radius of the sector. By using only a narrow annular sector, the annular sector can be straightened out into a rectangle. The distortion of this straightening out of the annular sector can be made arbitrarily small by modeling the sector as part of an arbitrarily large pinhole disk. This rectangle can then be scanned laterally, scanning in what was formerly the theta direction, what was formerly the radial direction is orthogonal to the scan direction. By mapping a segment of the disk onto a rectangular region all of the benefits described for the new pattern can be achieved with non-rotating pinhole apertures. Further, a design of the aperture patterns may be optimized to balance light throughput, axial resolution, cross-talk from out of focus regions passing through adjacent apertures and / or the like.

[0055] The aspects of the pinhole disk 100 and / or the imaging device 200 illustrated in Figure 1 and described therewith, may optionally be implemented in any other aspects of the pinhole disk 100 illustrated in the other figures and described therewith. Further, the aspects of the pinhole disk 100 illustrated in the other figures and described therewith may optionally be implemented in the aspects of the pinhole disk 100 and / or the imaging device 200 illustrated in Figure 1.

[0056] Figure 2 illustrates a top view of the pinhole disk according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0057] In particular, Figure 2 illustrates the pinhole disk 100 implementing the pinhole apertures 102 in at least one geometric spiral 104, which is shown as a single enlarged spiral to more easily illustrate and explain a geometry of the at least one geometric spiral 104. It should be appreciated that the pinhole disk 100 may have multiple implementations of the at least one geometric spiral 104, each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral 104 may include more or less spirals, and / or the like. Further, it should be appreciated that the pinhole disk 100 may have any number of the pinhole apertures 102.

[0058] In aspects, the at least one geometric spiral 104 may relate to a location on which the pinhole apertures 102 are arranged. In aspects, the pinhole apertures 102 may have any shape including circular, square, polygonal, and / or the like.PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT

[0059] In aspects, the at least one geometric spiral 104 may be a Fermat spiral, a non-Archimedean spiral, a spiral providing higher efficiency scanning pattern, a spiral providing a more even sampling pattern, and / or the like. In aspects, the at least one geometric spiral 104 may arrange the pinhole apertures 102 so as to have: a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes, provide a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes, provide a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes, a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes, a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes, and / or the like.

[0060] In aspects, the pinhole apertures 102 may be arranged in a sequence along the at least one geometric spiral 104. In aspects, the sequence of the pinhole apertures 102 may be defined by a sequence number “n” of a point defining a center of a particular nth one of the pinhole apertures 102 on the at least one geometric spiral 104.

[0061] In aspects, an arrangement of the pinhole apertures 102 on the at least one geometric spiral 104 may be, in polar coordinates, a radial distance T and an angle location 0 as illustrated in Figure 2. Further, the arrangement of the pinhole apertures 102 on the at least one geometric spiral 104 may be the radial distance “r” that may be a function of “n”; and the radial location 9 that may be a function of “n.” In particular, a particular nth implementation of the pinhole apertures 102 on the pinhole disk 100.

[0062] In aspects, an arrangement of a particular nth implementation the pinhole apertures 102 on the at least one geometric spiral 104 may be the radial distance “r” that is a function of “n” modified by a first constant “c”; and the radial location 0 that is a function of n modified by a second constant “d.” In aspects, an arrangement a particular nth implementation of the pinhole apertures 102 on the at least one geometric spiral 104 may be the radial distance “r” that is product of a function of “n” a first constant “c”; and the radial location 0 that is a product of a function of n and a second constant “d.” In aspects, an arrangement a particular nth implementation of the pinhole apertures 102 on the at least one geometric spiral 104 may be the radial distance “r” that is product of a nonlinear function of “n” a firstPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT constant “c”; and the angle location 0 that is a product of a function of n and a second constant “d.”

[0063] In aspects, an arrangement of the pinhole apertures 102 on the at least one geometric spiral 104 may be: r = c x f(n); and 0 = d x g(n). In aspects, c is a scaling parameter and 0 is the angle of the point on the circle and / or the pinhole apertures 102 on the at least one geometric spiral 104. In aspects, the scaling parameter c may set a distance between points and / or locations of the pinhole apertures 102 on the at least one geometric spiral 104.

[0064] In aspects, “d” may be an angle parameter. In aspects, the angle parameter d may be an irrational number. In aspects, units for the angle parameter d may be in cycles. In aspects, the angle parameter d may be the golden angle. In aspects, the angle parameter d may be a family of angles of that may include, as one example, approximately 137.508... degrees.

[0065] In aspects, the angle parameter d may be defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is “badly approximable.” In aspects, “badly approximable” may be defined as an irrational number, and if its continued fraction expansion is considered, all the coefficients in the expansion are bounded by some value. In aspects, the smaller the bound, the more badly approximable the number. The golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, and its inverse (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, may have the smallest possible bound of 1 , so they may be considered maximally “badly approximable.” In aspects, “badly approximable” numbers may be generated by using a square root of a small integer, or a fraction involving the square root and other small integers. Thus, in addition to (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, other values may be utilized for the angle parameter d including, for example, sqrt(2) - 1 , which is approximately 149.117... degrees.

[0066] In aspects, an arrangement of the pinhole apertures 102 on the at least one geometric spiral 104 may be: r = c x sqrt(n); and 0 = n x d, where the scaling parameter c and the angle parameter d may utilize the previously described values.

[0067] In aspects, an arrangement of the pinhole apertures 102 on one implementation of the at least one geometric spiral 104 may be on spirals with a radial spacing 114 that radially varies. In this regard, two adjacent spirals of the at least one geometric spiral 104 may have a first radial spacing (radial spacing 114) between each other and another two adjacent spirals of the at least one geometricPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT spiral 104 may have a second radial spacing (radial spacing 114) between each other; and the first radial spacing (radial spacing 114) may be different than the second radial spacing (radial spacing 114). In aspects, one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral 104 may be arranged between two adjacent spirals of the at least one geometric spiral 104; and the one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral 104 may be closer to one of the two adjacent spirals.

[0068] In aspects, the radial spacing 114 of spirals of the at least one geometric spiral 104 may decrease from a spiral close to a center of the pinhole disk 100 to spiral on an outside edge of the pinhole disk 100. Accordingly, the radial spacing 114 of the pinhole apertures 102 may decrease as a spiral approaches the outside edge of the pinhole disk 100.

[0069] In further aspects (not illustrated), the pinhole disk 100 may implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral 104. The various arrangements of the pinhole apertures 102 on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral 104 may be consistent with the arrangement of the at least one geometric spiral 104 disclosed herein.

[0070] The aspects of the pinhole disk 100 illustrated in Figure 2 and described therewith, may optionally be implemented in any other aspects of the pinhole disk 100 illustrated in the other figures and described therewith. Further, the aspects of the pinhole disk 100 illustrated in the other figures and described therewith may optionally be implemented in the aspects of the pinhole disk 100 illustrated in Figure 2.

[0071] Figure 3 illustrates a top view of a pinhole disk according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0072] Figure 4 illustrates a close-up view of the pinhole disk according to Figure 3.

[0073] In particular, Figure 3 illustrates the pinhole disk 100 implementing the pinhole apertures 102 (shown without detail) in at least one geometric spiral 104 (not shown) as previously described. Further, Figure 4 illustrates greater detail of the pinhole disk 100 implementing the pinhole apertures 102 arranged in at least one geometric spiral 104 (not shown) as previously described. In this regard, the pinhole disk 100 may have multiple implementations of the at least one geometric spiral 104 with implementations of the pinhole apertures 102 on each implementation of thePATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT multiple implementations of the at least one geometric spiral 104 as described herein.

[0074] Additionally, Figure 4 illustrates a line 122 that is representative of a path traced out by a single pixel of the detector 270 as the pinhole disk 100 rotates during implementation by the imaging device 200. As further described below, the arrangement of multiple implementations of the at least one geometric spiral 104 with implementations of the pinhole apertures 102 on each implementation of the multiple implementations of the at least one geometric spiral 104 as described herein results in sampling at a higher rate, sampling at a higher rate in comparison to arrangements on an Archimedean spiral, allowing faster image acquisition, allowing faster image acquisition in comparison to arrangements on an Archimedean spiral, and / or the like.

[0075] The aspects of the pinhole disk 100 illustrated in Figure 3 and Figure 4 and described therewith, may optionally be implemented in any other aspects of the pinhole disk 100 illustrated in the other figures and described therewith. Further, the aspects of the pinhole disk 100 illustrated in the other figures and described therewith may optionally be implemented in the aspects of the pinhole disk 100 illustrated in Figure 3 and Figure 4.

[0076] Figure 5 graphically illustrates a pattern of light received by the pinhole disk according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0077] In particular, Figure 5 graphically illustrates a pattern of light received 306 by the pinhole disk 100 with the pinhole apertures 102 arranged on the at least one geometric spiral 104 as disclosed herewith. In this regard, the pattern of light received 306 illustrates that the received light pattern vs. disk angle now samples at a much higher rate, as seen in this plot of returned light vs disk angle.

[0078] Figure 6 illustrates a spectrum of pinhole sampling in the pinhole disk according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0079] In particular, Figure 6 illustrates a spectrum of pinhole sampling 309 in the pinhole disk 100 with the pinhole apertures 102 on the at least one geometric spiral 104 as disclosed herewith. The improvement in sampling rate can be seen by comparing the spectrum of the pinhole sampling shown in Figure 6 with the Archimedean spiral spectrum shown in Figure 14. For the Archimedean pattern thePATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT number of spirals has been increased to 72, both patterns have the same pinhole size and nominal pinhole to pinhole spacing.

[0080] In this regard, sampling rate in the pinhole disk 100 with the pinhole apertures 102 on the at least one geometric spiral 104 as disclosed herewith is much higher than seen with the Archimedean spiral illustrated in Figure 9, allowing faster image acquisition.

[0081] Figure 7 illustrates a cross-section of variability of pinhole fill of the pinhole disk according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0082] In particular, Figure 7 illustrates a cross-section of variability of pinhole fill 310 of the pinhole disk 100 with the pinhole apertures 102 on the at least one geometric spiral 104 as disclosed herewith. In this regard, to further illustrate the problem caused by the relatively slow sampling of the Archimedean spiral pinhole pattern, simulated images were collected with a short, fixed exposure time of 0.050 disk rotations.

[0083] For this exposure time, the Archimedean spirals (with 72 interleaved spirals) pattern exposes some portions of an image with three pinholes and some with four pinholes, this leads to some portions of the image illuminated 4 / 3 as bright as other portions, this is clearly seen in Figure 15. Since the at least one geometric spiral 104 implemented as a Fermat spiral has a much higher sampling rate, there is less variability in the image cross section, for this simulation the variability has a standard deviation of only 0.2% of the mean image level. Drawing a cross-section of a portion of the resulting images shows the difference as illustrated in Figure 7 of the pinhole disk 100 with the pinhole apertures 102 on the at least one geometric spiral 104 as disclosed herewith and Figure 10 of the Archimedean spirals.

[0084] Figure 8 illustrates an exemplary imaging process implementing a pinhole disk according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0085] In particular, Figure 8 shows an exemplary process of implementing an imaging component 600 of the disclosure. In particular, it should be noted that the process of implementing an imaging component 600 is merely exemplary and may be modified consistent with the various aspects disclosed herein. Moreover, the process of implementing an imaging component 600 of the disclosure may include a process of manufacturing the pinhole disk 100. It should be noted that the process of implementing an imaging component 600 may be performed in a different orderPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT consistent with the aspects described above. Moreover, the process of implementing an imaging component 600 may be modified to have more or fewer process steps consistent with the various aspects disclosed herein.

[0086] The process of implementing an imaging component 600 of the disclosure may include providing a pinhole disk 602. In this regard, the providing a pinhole disk 602 may include any one or more materials, structures, arrangements, processes, and / or the like as described herein. Moreover, one or more proceeding or subsequent processes may also be implemented with respect to the providing a pinhole disk 602 consistent with the disclosure. In particular, the providing a pinhole disk 602 may include providing the pinhole disk 100 as disclosed herein.

[0087] The process of implementing an imaging component 600 of the disclosure may include arranging pinhole apertures in the pinhole disk 604. In this regard, the arranging pinhole apertures in the pinhole disk 604 may include any one or more materials, structures, arrangements, processes, and / or the like as described herein. Moreover, one or more proceeding or subsequent processes may also be implemented with respect to the arranging pinhole apertures in the pinhole disk 604 consistent with the disclosure. In particular, the arranging pinhole apertures in the pinhole disk 604 may include arranging the pinhole apertures 102 on the at least one geometric spiral 104 as disclosed herein

[0088] The process of implementing an imaging component 600 of the disclosure may include moving the pinhole disk within the imaging device 606. In this regard, the moving the pinhole disk within the imaging device 606 may include any one or more materials, structures, arrangements, processes, and / or the like as described herein. Moreover, one or more proceeding or subsequent processes may also be implemented with respect to the moving the pinhole disk within the imaging device 606 consistent with the disclosure. In particular, the moving the pinhole disk within the imaging device 606 may include implementing the motor 208 rotate the pinhole disk 100. In other aspects, the moving the pinhole disk within the imaging device 606 may include laterally moving the pinhole disk 100.

[0089] The process of implementing an imaging component 600 of the disclosure may include projecting light from a light source onto the pinhole disk 608. In this regard, the projecting light from a light source onto the pinhole disk 608 may include any one or more materials, structures, arrangements, processes, and / or thePATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT like as described herein. Moreover, one or more proceeding or subsequent processes may also be implemented with respect to the projecting light from a light source onto the pinhole disk 608 consistent with the disclosure. In particular, the projecting light from a light source onto the pinhole disk 608 may include projecting light from the light source 204 through the optical components 206 and onto the pinhole disk 100.

[0090] The process of implementing an imaging component 600 of the disclosure may include receiving light reflected from an object onto the pinhole disk 610. In this regard, the receiving light reflected from an object onto the pinhole disk 610 may include any one or more materials, structures, arrangements, processes, and / or the like as described herein. Moreover, one or more proceeding or subsequent processes may also be implemented with respect to the receiving light reflected from an object onto the pinhole disk 610 consistent with the disclosure. In particular, the receiving light reflected from an object onto the pinhole disk 610 may include receiving light through the optical components 206 from the object 400.

[0091] The process of implementing an imaging component 600 of the disclosure may include providing the light to a detector 612. In this regard, the providing the light to a detector 612 may include any one or more materials, structures, arrangements, processes, and / or the like as described herein. Moreover, one or more proceeding or subsequent processes may also be implemented with respect to the providing the light to a detector 612 consistent with the disclosure. In particular, the providing the light to a detector 612 may include providing light from the pinhole disk 100 through the optical components 206 to the detector 270.

[0092] One EXAMPLE: an imaging component includes a pinhole disk configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device. The imaging component in addition includes pinhole apertures in the pinhole disk. The imaging component moreover includes where the pinhole apertures are arranged in the pinhole disk in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component also includes where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a non-Archimedean spiral.

[0093] The above-noted EXAMPLE may further include any one or a combination of more than one of the following EXAMPLES: The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral patternPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a Fermat spiral. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing higher efficiency scanning pattern. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing a more even sampling pattern. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral; and where an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged at a radial distance r and a radial location ( such that: the radial distance r = c x f(n); the radial location ( = d x g(n); and where c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and where units for the angle parameter d are in cycles. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the anglePATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT parameter d is the golden angle. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is badly approximable. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral located at a radial distance r and a radial location (; and where an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged such that: r = c x sqrt(n); and ( = n x d; and where c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and where units for the angle parameter d are in cycles. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is the golden angle. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is badly approximable. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals comprising the pinhole apertures and the spirals comprise a radial spacing that varies. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals; where one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is arranged between two adjacent spirals of the at least onePATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT geometric spiral; and where the one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is closer to one of the two adjacent spirals. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole apertures comprises a circular shape. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole apertures comprises a square shape. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole apertures comprises a square shape. The imaging device of the above-noted EXAMPLE.

[0094] One EXAMPLE: an imaging component includes a pinhole disk configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device. The imaging component in addition includes pinhole apertures in the pinhole disk. The imaging component moreover includes where the pinhole apertures are arranged in the pinhole disk in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component also includes where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a Fermat spiral.

[0095] The above-noted EXAMPLE may further include any one or a combination of more than one of the following EXAMPLES: The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a non-Archimedean spiral. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing higher efficiency scanning pattern. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing a more even sampling pattern. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at leastPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral; and where an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged at a radial distance r and a radial location ( such that: the radial distance r = c x f(n); the radial location ( = d x g(n); and where c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and where units for the angle parameter d are in cycles. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is the golden angle. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is badly approximable. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral located at a radial distance r and a radial location (; and where an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged such that: r = c x sqrt(n); and ( = n x d; and where c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter. The imaging component of thePATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and where units for the angle parameter d are in cycles. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is the golden angle. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is badly approximable. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2 , (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals comprising the pinhole apertures and the spirals comprise a radial spacing that varies. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals; where one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is arranged between two adjacent spirals of the at least one geometric spiral; and where the one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is closer to one of the two adjacent spirals. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole apertures comprises a circular shape. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole apertures comprises a square shape. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole apertures comprises a square shape. The imaging device of the above-noted EXAMPLE.

[0096] One EXAMPLE: an imaging component includes a pinhole support configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device. The imaging component in addition includes pinhole apertures in the pinhole support. The imaging component moreover includes where the pinhole apertures are arranged in the pinhole support in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component also includes where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a non-Archimedean spiral.

[0097] The above-noted EXAMPLE may further include any one or a combination of more than one of the following EXAMPLES: The imaging componentPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a Fermat spiral. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing higher efficiency scanning pattern. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing a more even sampling pattern. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole support is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral; and where an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged at a radial distance r and a radial location ( such that: the radial distance r = c x f(n); the radial location ( = d x g(n); and where c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and where units for the angle parameter d are inPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT cycles. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is the golden angle. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is badly approximable. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole support is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral located at a radial distance r and a radial location (; and where an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged such that: r = c x sqrt(n); and ( = n x d; and where c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and where units for the angle parameter d are in cycles. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is the golden angle. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is badly approximable. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole support is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals comprising the pinhole apertures and the spirals comprise a radial spacing that varies. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals; where one spiral of the at least onePATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT geometric spiral is arranged between two adjacent spirals of the at least one geometric spiral; and where the one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is closer to one of the two adjacent spirals. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole apertures comprises a circular shape. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole apertures comprises a square shape. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole apertures comprises a square shape. The imaging device of the above-noted EXAMPLE.

[0098] One EXAMPLE: an imaging component includes a pinhole support configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device. The imaging component in addition includes pinhole apertures in the pinhole support. The imaging component moreover includes where the pinhole apertures are arranged in the pinhole support in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component also includes where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a Fermat spiral.

[0099] The above-noted EXAMPLE may further include any one or a combination of more than one of the following EXAMPLES: The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a non-Archimedean spiral. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing higher efficiency scanning pattern. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing a more even sampling pattern. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement ofPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole support is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral; and where an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged at a radial distance r and a radial location ( such that: the radial distance r = c x f(n); the radial location ( = d x g(n); and where c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and where units for the angle parameter d are in cycles. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is the golden angle. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is badly approximable. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1 . The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole support is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral located at a radial distance r and a radial location (; and where an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged such that: r = c x sqrt(n); and ( = n x d;PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT and where c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and where units for the angle parameter d are in cycles. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is the golden angle. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is badly approximable. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1 . The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole support is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals comprising the pinhole apertures and the spirals comprise a radial spacing that varies. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals; where one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is arranged between two adjacent spirals of the at least one geometric spiral; and where the one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is closer to one of the two adjacent spirals. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole apertures comprises a circular shape. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole apertures comprises a square shape. The imaging component of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole apertures comprises a square shape. The imaging device of the above-noted EXAMPLE.

[0100] One EXAMPLE: a process includes providing a pinhole disk configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device. The process in addition includes arranging pinhole apertures in the pinhole disk in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral. The process moreover includes where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a non-Archimedean spiral.

[0101] The above-noted EXAMPLE may further include any one or a combination of more than one of the following EXAMPLES: The process of thePATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a Fermat spiral. The process of the above-noted EXA PLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing higher efficiency scanning pattern. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing a more even sampling pattern. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral; and where an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged at a radial distance r and a radial location ( such that: the radial distance r = c x f(n); the radial location ( = d x g(n); and where c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and where units for the angle parameter d are in cycles. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is the golden angle. ThePATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees. The process of the abovenoted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is badly approximable. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1 . The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral located at a radial distance r and a radial location (; and where an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged such that: r = c x sqrt(n); and ( = n x d; and where c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and where units for the angle parameter d are in cycles. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is the golden angle. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees. The process of the abovenoted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is badly approximable. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1 . The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals comprising the pinhole apertures and the spirals comprise a radial spacing that varies. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals; where one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is arranged between two adjacent spirals of the at least one geometric spiral; and where the one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is closer to one of the two adjacent spirals. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole apertures comprises a circularPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT shape. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole apertures comprises a square shape. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole apertures comprises a square shape.

[0102] One EXAMPLE: a process includes providing a pinhole disk configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device. The process in addition includes arranging pinhole apertures in the pinhole disk in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral. The process moreover includes where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a Fermat spiral.

[0103] The above-noted EXAMPLE may further include any one or a combination of more than one of the following EXAMPLES: The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a non-Archimedean spiral. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing higher efficiency scanning pattern. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing a more even sampling pattern. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE wherePATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral; and where an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged at a radial distance r and a radial location ( such that: the radial distance r = c x f(n); the radial location ( = d x g(n); and where c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter. The process of the above-noted EXA PLE where the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and where units for the angle parameter d are in cycles. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is the golden angle. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees. The process of the abovenoted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is badly approximable. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1 . The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral located at a radial distance r and a radial location (; and where an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged such that: r = c x sqrt(n); and ( = n x d; and where c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and where units for the angle parameter d are in cycles. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is the golden angle. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees. The process of the abovenoted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is badly approximable. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratioPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT(1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals comprising the pinhole apertures and the spirals comprise a radial spacing that varies. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals; where one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is arranged between two adjacent spirals of the at least one geometric spiral; and where the one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is closer to one of the two adjacent spirals. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole apertures comprises a circular shape. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole apertures comprises a square shape. The process of the above-noted EXAMPLE where the pinhole apertures comprises a square shape.

[0104] Accordingly, the disclosure has set forth a confocal pinhole disk pattern, an imaging device, a process for implementing a confocal pinhole disk pattern, and an imaging device implementing a confocal pinhole disk pattern that increases a speed of image capture, scanning, and / or the like.

[0105] It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0106] It will be understood that when an element such as a layer, region, or substrate is referred to as being "on" or extending "onto" another element, it can be directly on or extend directly onto another element or intervening elements may also be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" or extending "directly onto" another element, there are no intervening elements present. Likewise, it will be understood that when an element such as a layer, region, or substrate is referred to as being "over" or extending "over" another element, it can be directly over or extend directly over another element or intervening elements mayPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT also be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly over" or extending "directly over" another element, there are no intervening elements present. It will also be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to another element or intervening elements may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intervening elements present.

[0107] Relative terms such as "below" or "above" or "upper" or "lower" or "horizontal" or "vertical" may be used herein to describe a relationship of one element, layer, or region to another element, layer, or region as illustrated in the Figure s. It will be understood that these terms and those discussed above are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in addition to the orientation depicted in the Figure s.

[0108] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," and / or "including" when used herein specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0109] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0110] The many features and advantages of the disclosure are apparent from the detailed specification, and, thus, it is intended by the appended claims to cover all such features and advantages of the disclosure which fall within the true spirit and scope of the disclosure. Further, since numerous modifications and variations will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the disclosure to thePATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT exact construction and operation illustrated and described, and, accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to that fall within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCTCLAIMS:1 . An imaging component configured to be implemented in an imaging device, the imaging component comprising: a pinhole disk configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device; and pinhole apertures in the pinhole disk, wherein the pinhole apertures are arranged in the pinhole disk in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral; and wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a non-Archimedean spiral.

2. The imaging component according to claim 1 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a Fermat spiral.

3. The imaging component according to claim 1 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing higher efficiency scanning pattern.

4. The imaging component according to claim 1 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing a more even sampling pattern.

5. The imaging component according to claim 1 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

6. The imaging component according to claim 1 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT7. The imaging component according to claim 1 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

8. The imaging component according to claim 1 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

9. The imaging component according to claim 1 wherein the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral.

10. The imaging component according to claim 1 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral; and wherein an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged at a radial distance r and a radial location 9 such that: the radial distance r = c x f(n); the radial location 0 = d x g(n); and wherein c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter.11 . The imaging component according to claim 10 wherein the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and wherein units for the angle parameter d are in cycles.

12. The imaging component according to claim 10 wherein the angle parameter d is the golden angle.

13. The imaging component according to claim 10 wherein the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees.PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT14. The imaging component according to claim 10 wherein the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is “badly approximable.”15. The imaging component according to claim 10 wherein the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1.

16. The imaging component according to claim 10 wherein the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral.

17. The imaging component according to claim 1 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral located at a radial distance r and a radial location 6; and wherein an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged such that: r = c x sqrt(n); and 0 = n x d; and wherein c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter.

18. The imaging component according to claim 17 wherein the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and wherein units for the angle parameter d are in cycles.

19. The imaging component according to claim 17 wherein the angle parameter d is the golden angle.

20. The imaging component according to claim 17 wherein the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees.21 . The imaging component according to claim 17 wherein the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is “badly approximable.”PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT22. The imaging component according to claim 17 wherein the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1.

23. The imaging component according to claim 17 wherein the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral.

24. The imaging component according to claim 1 wherein the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals comprising the pinhole apertures and the spirals comprise a radial spacing that varies.

25. The imaging component according to claim 1 wherein the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals; wherein one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is arranged between two adjacent spirals of the at least one geometric spiral; and wherein the one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is closer to one of the two adjacent spirals.

26. The imaging component according to claim 1 wherein the pinhole apertures comprises a circular shape.

27. The imaging component according to claim 1 wherein the pinhole apertures comprises a square shape.

28. An imaging device comprising the pinhole disk according to claim 1.

29. An imaging component configured to be implemented in an imaging device, the imaging component comprising: a pinhole disk configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device; and pinhole apertures in the pinhole disk,PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT wherein the pinhole apertures are arranged in the pinhole disk in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral; and wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a Fermat spiral.

30. The imaging component according to claim 29 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a non- Archimedean spiral.31 . The imaging component according to claim 29 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing higher efficiency scanning pattern.

32. The imaging component according to claim 29 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing a more even sampling pattern.

33. The imaging component according to claim 29 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

34. The imaging component according to claim 29 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

35. The imaging component according to claim 29 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

36. The imaging component according to claim 29 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises aPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT configuration that results in a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

37. The imaging component according to claim 29 wherein the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral.

38. The imaging component according to claim 29 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral; and wherein an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged at a radial distance r and a radial location 9 such that: the radial distance r = c x f(n); the radial location 9 = d x g(n); and wherein c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter.

39. The imaging component according to claim 38 wherein the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and wherein units for the angle parameter d are in cycles.

40. The imaging component according to claim 38 wherein the angle parameter d is the golden angle.41 . The imaging component according to claim 38 wherein the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees.

42. The imaging component according to claim 38 wherein the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is “badly approximable.”43. The imaging component according to claim 38 wherein the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1.PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT44. The imaging component according to claim 38 wherein the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral.

45. The imaging component according to claim 29 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral located at a radial distance r and a radial location 0; and wherein an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged such that: r = c x sqrt(n); and 0 = n x d; and wherein c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter.

46. The imaging component according to claim 45 wherein the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and wherein units for the angle parameter d are in cycles.

47. The imaging component according to claim 45 wherein the angle parameter d is the golden angle.

48. The imaging component according to claim 45 wherein the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees.

49. The imaging component according to claim 45 wherein the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2 pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is “badly approximable.”50. The imaging component according to claim 45 wherein the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1.PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT51 . The imaging component according to claim 45 wherein the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral.

52. The imaging component according to claim 29 wherein the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals comprising the pinhole apertures and the spirals comprise a radial spacing that varies.

53. The imaging component according to claim 29 wherein the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals; wherein one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is arranged between two adjacent spirals of the at least one geometric spiral; and wherein the one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is closer to one of the two adjacent spirals.

54. The imaging component according to claim 29 wherein the pinhole apertures comprises a circular shape.

55. The imaging component according to claim 29 wherein the pinhole apertures comprises a square shape.

56. An imaging device comprising the pinhole disk according to claim 29.

57. An imaging component configured to be implemented in an imaging device, the imaging component comprising: a pinhole support configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device; and pinhole apertures in the pinhole support, wherein the pinhole apertures are arranged in the pinhole support in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral; and wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a non-Archimedean spiral.PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT58. The imaging component according to claim 57 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a Fermat spiral.

59. The imaging component according to claim 57 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing higher efficiency scanning pattern.

60. The imaging component according to claim 57 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing a more even sampling pattern.61 . The imaging component according to claim 57 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

62. The imaging component according to claim 57 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

63. The imaging component according to claim 57 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

64. The imaging component according to claim 57 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

65. The imaging component according to claim 57 wherein the pinhole support is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiralPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral.

66. The imaging component according to claim 57 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral; and wherein an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged at a radial distance r and a radial location 0 such that: the radial distance r = c x f(n); the radial location 0 = d x g(n); and wherein c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter.

67. The imaging component according to claim 66 wherein the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and wherein units for the angle parameter d are in cycles.

68. The imaging component according to claim 66 wherein the angle parameter d is the golden angle.

69. The imaging component according to claim 66 wherein the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees.

70. The imaging component according to claim 66 wherein the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is “badly approximable.”71 . The imaging component according to claim 66 wherein the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1.

72. The imaging component according to claim 66 wherein the pinhole support is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiralPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral.

73. The imaging component according to claim 57 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral located at a radial distance r and a radial location 9; and wherein an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged such that: r = c x sqrt(n); and 9 = n x d; and wherein c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter.

74. The imaging component according to claim 73 wherein the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and wherein units for the angle parameter d are in cycles.

75. The imaging component according to claim 73 wherein the angle parameter d is the golden angle.

76. The imaging component according to claim 73 wherein the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees.

77. The imaging component according to claim 73 wherein the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is “badly approximable.”78. The imaging component according to claim 73 wherein the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1.

79. The imaging component according to claim 73 wherein the pinhole support is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral.PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT80. The imaging component according to claim 57 wherein the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals comprising the pinhole apertures and the spirals comprise a radial spacing that varies.81 . The imaging component according to claim 57 wherein the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals; wherein one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is arranged between two adjacent spirals of the at least one geometric spiral; and wherein the one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is closer to one of the two adjacent spirals.

82. The imaging component according to claim 57 wherein the pinhole apertures comprises a circular shape.

83. The imaging component according to claim 57 wherein the pinhole apertures comprises a square shape.

84. An imaging device comprising the pinhole support according to claim 57.

85. An imaging component configured to be implemented in an imaging device, the imaging component comprising: a pinhole support configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device; and pinhole apertures in the pinhole support, wherein the pinhole apertures are arranged in the pinhole support in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral; and wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a Fermat spiral.PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT86. The imaging component according to claim 85 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a non- Archimedean spiral.

87. The imaging component according to claim 85 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing higher efficiency scanning pattern.

88. The imaging component according to claim 85 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing a more even sampling pattern.

89. The imaging component according to claim 85 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

90. The imaging component according to claim 85 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.91 . The imaging component according to claim 85 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

92. The imaging component according to claim 85 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

93. The imaging component according to claim 85 wherein the pinhole support is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiralPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral.

94. The imaging component according to claim 85 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral; and wherein an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged at a radial distance r and a radial location 0 such that: the radial distance r = c x f(n); the radial location 0 = d x g(n); and wherein c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter.

95. The imaging component according to claim 94 wherein the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and wherein units for the angle parameter d are in cycles.

96. The imaging component according to claim 94 wherein the angle parameter d is the golden angle.

97. The imaging component according to claim 94 wherein the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees.

98. The imaging component according to claim 94 wherein the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is “badly approximable.”99. The imaging component according to claim 94 wherein the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1.

100. The imaging component according to claim 93 wherein the pinhole support is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiralPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral.101 . The imaging component according to claim 85 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral located at a radial distance r and a radial location 9; and wherein an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged such that: r = c x sqrt(n); and 9 = n x d; and wherein c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter.

102. The imaging component according to claim 101 wherein the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and wherein units for the angle parameter d are in cycles.

103. The imaging component according to claim 101 wherein the angle parameter d is the golden angle.

104. The imaging component according to claim 101 wherein the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees.

105. The imaging component according to claim 101 wherein the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is “badly approximable.”106. The imaging component according to claim 101 wherein the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1.

107. The imaging component according to claim 101 wherein the pinhole support is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral.PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT108. The imaging component according to claim 85 wherein the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals comprising the pinhole apertures and the spirals comprise a radial spacing that varies.

109. The imaging component according to claim 85 wherein the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals; wherein one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is arranged between two adjacent spirals of the at least one geometric spiral; and wherein the one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is closer to one of the two adjacent spirals.

110. The imaging component according to claim 85 wherein the pinhole apertures comprises a circular shape.

111. The imaging component according to claim 85 wherein the pinhole apertures comprises a square shape.

112. An imaging device comprising the pinhole support according to claim 85.

113. A process of implementing an imaging component configured to be implemented in an imaging device, the process of implementing an imaging component comprising: providing a pinhole disk configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device; and arranging pinhole apertures in the pinhole disk in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral, wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a non-Archimedean spiral.PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT114. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 113 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a Fermat spiral.

115. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 113 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing higher efficiency scanning pattern.

116. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 113 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing a more even sampling pattern.

117. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 113 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

118. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 113 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

119. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 113 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

120. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 113 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT121. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 113 wherein the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral.

122. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 113 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral; and wherein an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged at a radial distance r and a radial location 6 such that: the radial distance r = c x f(n); the radial location 0 = d x g(n); and wherein c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter.

123. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 122 wherein the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and wherein units for the angle parameter d are in cycles.

124. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 122 wherein the angle parameter d is the golden angle.

125. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 122 wherein the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees.

126. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 122 wherein the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is “badly approximable.”PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT127. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 122 wherein the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1 .

128. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 122 wherein the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral.

129. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 113 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral located at a radial distance r and a radial location 0; and wherein an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged such that: r = c x sqrt(n); and 0 = n x d; and wherein c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter.

130. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 129 wherein the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and wherein units for the angle parameter d are in cycles.

131. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 129 wherein the angle parameter d is the golden angle.

132. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 129 wherein the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees.

133. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 129 wherein the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is “badly approximable.”PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT134. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 129 wherein the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1 .

135. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 129 wherein the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral.

136. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 113 wherein the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals comprising the pinhole apertures and the spirals comprise a radial spacing that varies.

137. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 113 wherein the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals; wherein one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is arranged between two adjacent spirals of the at least one geometric spiral; and wherein the one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is closer to one of the two adjacent spirals.

138. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 113 wherein the pinhole apertures comprises a circular shape.

139. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 113 wherein the pinhole apertures comprises a square shape.

140. A process of implementing an imaging component configured to be implemented in an imaging device, the process of implementing an imaging component comprising: providing a pinhole disk configured to rotate and / or to move laterally within the imaging device; andPATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT arranging pinhole apertures in the pinhole disk in a pattern arrangement consistent with at least one geometric spiral, wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a Fermat spiral.

141. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 140 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a non-Archimedean spiral.

142. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 140 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing higher efficiency scanning pattern.

143. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 140 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a spiral providing a more even sampling pattern.

144. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 140 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

145. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 140 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

146. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 140 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a higher efficiency scanning pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT147. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 140 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a configuration that results in a more even sampling pattern than an Archimedean spiral arrangement of pinholes.

148. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 140 wherein the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral.

149. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 140 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral; and wherein an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged at a radial distance r and a radial location 9 such that: the radial distance r = c x f(n); the radial location 0 = d x g(n); and wherein c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter.

150. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 149 wherein the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and wherein units for the angle parameter d are in cycles.

151. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 149 wherein the angle parameter d is the golden angle.

152. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 149 wherein the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees.PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT153. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 149 wherein the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is “badly approximable.”154. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 149 wherein the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1 .

155. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 149 wherein the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral.

156. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 140 wherein the at least one geometric spiral pattern arrangement of the pinhole apertures comprises a sequence of n pinholes along the at least one geometric spiral located at a radial distance r and a radial location 0; and wherein an nth one of the pinhole apertures on the at least one geometric spiral is arranged such that: r = c x sqrt(n); and 0 = n x d; and wherein c is a scaling parameter and d is an angle parameter.

157. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 156 wherein the angle parameter d is an irrational number; and wherein units for the angle parameter d are in cycles.

158. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 156 wherein the angle parameter d is the golden angle.

159. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 156 wherein the angle parameter d is a family of angles of that include approximately 137.508 degrees.PATENTDocket No.: 131825 021509NDSN: 24-042 / PCT160. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 156 wherein the angle parameter d is defined as (alpha) * (2pi) radians, where a relevant property of alpha is that it is “badly approximable.”161. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 156 wherein the angle parameter d is based on a golden ratio (1 + sqrt(5)) / 2, (3 - sqrt(5)) / 2, or sqrt(2) - 1 .

162. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 156 wherein the pinhole disk is configured to implement a plurality of the at least one geometric spiral comprising the pinhole apertures on each implementation of the at least one geometric spiral.

163. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 140 wherein the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals comprising the pinhole apertures and the spirals comprise a radial spacing that varies.

164. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 140 wherein the at least one geometric spiral comprises spirals; wherein one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is arranged between two adjacent spirals of the at least one geometric spiral; and wherein the one spiral of the at least one geometric spiral is closer to one of the two adjacent spirals.

165. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 140 wherein the pinhole apertures comprises a circular shape.

166. The process of implementing an imaging component according to claim 140 wherein the pinhole apertures comprises a square shape.

Images