Imaging systems with motorized filter assemblies and associated systems and methods

Abstract

Imaging systems with motorized filter assemblies (and associated systems, devices, and methods) are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an imaging system includes a camera having an image sensor, a lens assembly having an imaging lens operatively coupled to the camera such that the imaging lens is positioned in front of the image sensor, and a motorized filter assembly. The motorized filter assembly includes a filter and a motor configured to move the filter between a first position in front of the imaging lens and a second position away from the imaging lens. The motor can be a flipper motor that flips the filter in front of or away from the imaging lens. The system can include control electronics configured to control movement of the filter via the motor based on received signals or user input.

Description

077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00IMAGING SYSTEMS WITH MOTORIZED FILTER ASSEMBLIES AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 778,219, filed March 26, 2025, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to imaging systems. For example, several embodiments of the present technology described in detail below relate to imaging systems that utilize motorized filter assemblies for capturing high-quality measurements across a dynamic range of patterns presented on devices under test (DUTs), such as digital displays.BACKGROUND

[0003] Electronic visual displays (“displays” or "digital displays") have become commonplace. Displays are used in a wide variety of contexts, from scoreboards and billboards, to computer screens and televisions, to personal electronics. It is often desirable to measure characteristics of some or all portions of a display. For example, it is often desirable to measure the color and brightness of a pixel or group of pixels in a display to ensure that the display meets specified and / or acceptable parameters before it is incorporated into other devices, shipped, and / or sold.

[0004] In industry, imaging systems are often employed in addition to, or in lieu of, human vision to inspect displays. Data collected by such imaging systems can be used to verify that one or more characteristics (e.g., color and brightness) of a display are correct, to perform various calibrations to bring the characteristics of the display into alignment with specified and / or acceptable parameters, and / or to reject the display altogether such that the display is not provided to an end user.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Many aspects of the present disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale. Instead,-1- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00emphasis is placed on illustrating clearly the principles of the present disclosure. The drawings should not be taken to limit the disclosure to the specific embodiments shown, but are provided for explanation and understanding.

[0006] FIG. 1 illustrates a side perspective view of an imaging system configured in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology.

[0007] FIG. 2 illustrates another side perspective view of the imaging system of FIG. 1.

[0008] FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate perspective views of an imaging system configured in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology.

[0009] FIGS. 5-8 illustrate perspective views of an imaging system configured in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology.

[0010] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of operating an imaging system in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] The following disclosure describes imaging systems with motorized filter assemblies and associated systems, devices, and methods. For example, several embodiments of the present technology relate to imaging systems including motorized filter assemblies configured to move (e.g., flip) a filter between a first position in front of a lens (e.g., such that light that enters the lens first passes through the filter) and a second position away from the lens (e.g., such that light that enters the lens does not first pass through the filter). In the first position, the filter can be within a field of view of an image sensor of the imaging system. In the second position, the filter can be positioned outside of the field of view. Imaging systems of the present technology are expected to enable capturing high-quality images and measurements of DUTs across a large dynamic range of display patterns, while still remaining sized to fit within tight mechanical envelopes or constraints that are commonly present at inspection stations.

[0012] In the following description, specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of aspects of the present technology. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the systems, devices, and techniques described herein can be practiced without one or more of the specific details set forth herein, or with other methods, components, materials, etc.-2- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00

[0013] Reference throughout this specification to an “example” or an “embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example or embodiment is included in at least one example or embodiment of the present technology. Thus, use of the phrases “for example,” “as an example,” or “an embodiment” herein are not necessarily all referring to the same example or embodiment and are not necessarily limited to the specific example or embodiment discussed. Furthermore, features, structures, or characteristics of the present technology described herein can be combined in any suitable manner to provide further examples or embodiments of the present technology.

[0014] Spatially relative terms (e.g., “beneath,” “below,” “over,” “under,” “above,” “upper,” “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “center,” “middle,” and the like) can be used herein for ease of description to describe one element’s or feature’s relationship relative to one or more other elements or features as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of a device or system in use or operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if a device or system illustrated in the figures is rotated, turned, or flipped about a horizontal axis, elements or features described as “below” or “beneath” or “under” one or more other elements or features can then be oriented “above” the one or more other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary terms “below” and “under” are non-limiting and can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device or system can additionally, or alternatively, be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated ninety degrees about a vertical axis, or at other orientations) than illustrated in the figures, and the spatially relative descriptors used herein are interpreted accordingly. In addition, it will also be understood that when an element is referred to as being “between” two other elements, it can be the only element between the two other elements, or one or more intervening elements can also be present.A. Overview

[0015] As discussed above, imaging systems are commonly employed to inspect digital displays and other DUTs. The quality of the images captured by an imaging system during inspection should be maximized as much as possible to resolve microscopic details of a DUT (e.g., each individual sub-pixel of a digital display, such as an OLED display, an LCD display, or a Micro-LED display). One way of improving the quality of the images is to reduce the f-number (F / #) of a lens of the imaging system as much as possible to improve diffraction-limited resolution.-3- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00

[0016] Furthermore, many DUTs require that measurement cameras of imaging systems include a large dynamic power range. For example, in scenarios in which imaging systems are used to perform pixel uniformity correction on display DUTs (e.g., measurement and adjustment of luminance and / or chromaticity of individual pixels to produce display DUTs with an entirely uniform appearance, which is a process known as “demura”), measurement cameras of the imaging systems are required to have large dynamic power ranges that facilitate measuring patterns displayed by the DUTs at both maximum and near-zero luminance levels. Because the imaging systems must remain polarization independent for such measurements, one effective way to increase a camera's dynamic power range is to use a neutral density filter to attenuate light signals at the highest power levels. More specifically, a neutral density filter (a) can be employed while measuring patterns displayed by DUTs at high and / or maximum luminance levels and (b) can be removed or omitted while measuring patterns displayed by DUTs at lower and / or near-zero luminance levels.

[0017] To this end, one possible implementation is to have a human operator (i) attach a neutral density filter to a lens of an imaging system when the imaging system is used to measure a pattern displayed by a DUT at high and / or maximum luminance levels and (ii) detach the neutral density filter from the lens when the imaging system is used to measure a partem displayed by the DUT at lower and / or near-zero luminance levels. Such an implementation, however, significantly slows down the speed with which the imaging system can be used to inspect a DUT, meaning that such an implementation has a negative effect on inspection throughput.

[0018] Another possible implementation is to use integrated filter wheels that each carry one or more neutral density filters. More specifically, an imaging system can employ an integrated filter wheel configured to rotate about an axis generally parallel to an optical axis of the imaging system. In this manner, the integrated filter wheel can swap a neutral density into and out of a field of view of an image sensor of the imaging system depending on whether the imaging system is being used to measure a partem displayed by a DUT at high and / or maximum luminance levels or at lower and / or near-zero luminance level. Use of an integrated filter wheel, however, requires the imaging system to be larger in size to accommodate the filter wheel, which is incompatible with many inspection stations that have limited mechanical envelopes within which to fit the imaging systems. Stated another way, imaging systems that include integrated filter wheels are often too bulky to fit within the space constraints of many inspection stations.-4- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00

[0019] To address these concerns, the present technology is generally directed to imaging systems that employ motorized filter assemblies configured to move (e.g., flip) a filter between a first position in front of a lens (e.g., such that light that enters the lens first passes through the filter) and a second position away from the lens (e.g., such that light that enters the lens does not first pass through the filter), such as into and out of a field of view of an image sensor of a camera of the imaging system. In one embodiment, an imaging system includes a camera having an image sensor, an imaging lens couplable to the camera in front of the image sensor, and a motorized filter assembly configured to move a filter (e.g., a neutral density filter) between a first position in front of the lens and a second position away from the lens. In some embodiments, the imaging system can include a mechanical shroud attached to the camera and / or the lens. The mechanical shroud can enclose at least part of the lens. The motorized filter assembly can be attached to and supported by the mechanical shroud.

[0020] The motorized filter assembly can include a motor and a filter bracket. The filter bracket can be configured to hold the filter. In some embodiments, the motor can be a flipper motor and / or can be coupled to (and / or controlled by) control electronics, such as the control electronics of the camera and / or control electronics onboard the motorized filter assembly. For example, the motor of the motorized filter assembly can be electronically controlled (e.g., without human physical interaction) via control electronics to transition (e.g., move, flip) the filter bracket from the first position in front of the lens to the second position in which the filter is positioned away from an optical axis of the imaging system and / or outside of a field of view of the image sensor. While the filter bracket and filter are in the second position, light can enter the lens without first passing through the filter, thereby facilitating measuring patterns displayed by a DUT at lower and / or near-zero luminance levels. Additionally, or alternatively, the motor of the motorized filter assembly can be electronically controlled (e.g., without human physical interaction) via the control electronics to transition (e.g., move, flip) the filter bracket from the second position to the first position in front of the lens such that the filter intersects with the optical axis of the imaging system and / or is positioned within the field of view of the image sensor. While the filter bracket and the filter are in the first position, light can first pass through the filter before entering the lens, thereby facilitating measuring patterns displayed by a DUT at higher and / or maximum luminance levels. In this manner, the present technology is expected to increase the dynamic power range of the imaging system while keeping the space occupied by the imaging system small and limiting requisite human physical interaction.-5- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00

[0021] The present technology is therefore expected to offer several advantages over other arrangements. For example, the present technology enables use of a neutral density filter to increase the dynamic power range of an imaging system’s camera while keeping the imaging system polarization independent, thereby enabling use of the imaging system in demura and other processes. The present technology further enables use of the neutral density filter while keeping the imaging system and / or the requisite operating space of the imaging system compact, thereby facilitating use of the imaging system in inspection stations with small mechanical envelopes and space constraints. In addition, motorized filter assemblies of the present technology can be controlled via onboard control electronics and / or via control electronics of the camera, thereby facilitating automated inspection of DUTs with little to no human physical interaction. As a result, the present technology is expected to facilitate short measurement exposure times and high inspection throughput.B. Selected Embodiments of Imaging Systems with Motorized Filter Assemblies, and Associated Systems, Devices, and Methods

[0022] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate side perspective views of an imaging system 100 configured in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As shown, the imaging system 100 includes a measurement camera 105, a motorized filter assembly 110, and a lens assembly 112. The measurement camera 105 can include an image sensor 108 and control electronics 109. In some embodiments, the measurement camera 105 can be a digital camera.

[0023] The lens assembly 112 can include an imaging lens 114. The imaging lens 114 can be positioned in front of the image sensor 108 of the camera 105. In some embodiments, the imaging lens 114 includes manually and / or electronically adjustable zoom and / or focus functionalities. In these and other embodiments, the imaging lens 114 includes an adjustable aperture size. Although shown as a straight lens in FIGS. 1 and 2, imaging systems configured in accordance with other embodiments of the present technology can include folded lens configurations.

[0024] The lens assembly 112 can further include and / or can be at least partially surrounded by a mechanical shroud 106 of the imaging system 100. The mechanical shroud 106 can be coupled to the camera 105. As shown, the motorized filter assembly 110 can be mounted to or mechanically supported by the mechanical shroud 106. For example, the motorized filter assembly 110 can be integral with the mechanical shroud 106. As another example, the motorized filter assembly 110 can be reversibly attached to the mechanical shroud 106.-6- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00

[0025] The motorized filter assembly 110 can include a filter 101, a filter bracket 102, and a motor 104. The filter 101 can be a neutral density filter.filter, a bandpass filter, a eai filter. or another suitable type of filter. The filter bracket 102 can be configured to hold the filter 101 and / or can be operably coupled to the motor 104. In some embodiments, the motor 104 can be a flipper motor or another suitable type of electric motor. In these and other embodiments, the motorized filter assembly 110 can include onboard control electronics configured to control the motor 104.

[0026] In operation, the motor 104 can be configured to transition (e.g., move, flip) the filter bracket 102 (and therefore the filter 101 held by the filter bracket 102) between a first position in which the filter 101 is positioned in front of an imaging lens 114 (as shown in FIG.1) and a second position in which the filter 101 is moved away from the imaging lens 114 (as shown in FIG. 2). For example, when moving the filter bracket 102 from the first position (FIG.1) to the second position (FIG. 2), the motor 104 can move the filter bracket 102 (and therefore the filter 101) generally along arrow A shown in FIG. 2. In the second position, the filter 101 can be positioned at a location generally above an entrance pupil and / or an entrance aperture of the imaging lens 114. Additionally, or alternatively, in the second position, the filter 101 can be oriented generally parallel with an optical axis of the imaging system 100 that extends between the entrance pupil of the imaging lens 114 and the image sensor 108 of the camera 105. As another example, when moving the filter bracket 102 from the second position (FIG. 2) to the first position (FIG. 1), the motor 104 can move the filter bracket 102 (and therefore the filter 101) in generally the opposite direction of arrow A shown in FIG. 2.

[0027] In the first position, the filter 101 can be positioned within a field of view of the image sensor 108 and / or can be positioned such that light that enters the imaging lens 114 along an optical axis of the imaging system 100 first passes through the filter 101. The optical axis can intersect (and extend between) (i) an entrance pupil or an entrance aperture at the front of the imaging lens 114 and (ii) the image sensor 108. For example, in the first position, the filter 101 can be oriented generally perpendicular to the optical axis and / or can be at a location generally along the optical axis that is in line with the entrance pupil, the entrance aperture, and / or the image sensor 108.

[0028] In the second position, the filter 101 can be positioned outside a field of view of the image sensor 108 and / or can be positioned such that light along the optical axis can enter the imaging lens 114 without first passing through the filter 101. In other words, when the filter-7- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00bracket 102 and the filter 101 are at the second position, unfiltered light can be permitted to reach and enter the imaging lens 114. For example, in the second position, the filter 101 can be positioned at a location generally above the entrance pupil of the imaging lens 114, the entrance aperture of the imaging lens 114, and / or the image sensor 108 of the camera 105. Additionally, or alternatively, in the second position, the filter 101 can be oriented generally parallel with the optical axis of the imaging system 100.

[0029] In operation, the camera 105, the lens assembly 112, and the motorized filter assembly 110 can work in conjunction to capture images, such as of a DUT. In some embodiments, the motor 104 can be coupled to onboard control electronics of the motorized filter assembly 110 and / or to the control electronics 109 of the camera 105. The onboard control electronics and / or the control electronics 109 of the camera 105 can enable automated inspection of DUTs, such as with little or no human physical interaction / intervention. For example, the onboard control electronics and / or the control electronics 109 of the camera 105 can be configured to selectively control the motor 104 to position the filter bracket 102 (and therefore the filter 101 held by the filter bracket 102) in the first position in front of the imaging lens 114 (e.g., to facilitate using the filter 101, the imaging lens 114, and the image sensor 108 to capture an image of a DUT when the DUT is displaying one or more patterns at high and / or maximum luminance levels). As another example, the onboard control electronics and / or the control electronics 109 of the camera 105 can be configured to selectively control the motor 104 to position the filter bracket 102 (and therefore the filter 101 held by the filter bracket 102) in the second position away from the imaging lens 114 (e.g., to facilitate using the imaging lens 114 and the image sensor 108 of the camera 105 to capture an image of a DUT when the DUT is displaying one or more patterns at low and / or near-zero luminance levels). In some embodiments, the onboard control electronics and / or the control electronics 109 of the camera 105 can receive signals from an external device or user input to determine when to flip the filter bracket 102 to the first position or the second position. The onboard control electronics and / or the control electronics 109 of the camera 105 can then send appropriate commands to the motor 104 of the motorized filter assembly 110 to move the filter bracket 102 and the filter 101 to either the first position or the second position.

[0030] The motorized filter assembly 110 and the overall imaging system 100 can be sized and / or otherwise designed to fit within a tight mechanical envelope. The compact design can allow the imaging system 100 to be installed and used in existing inspection stations with limited space. Despite its compact size, the imaging system 100 can be configured to measure both the -8- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00brightest and darkest patterns on a DUT. The ability to flip the filter 101 in and out of the optical path of the lens 114 can enable the imaging system 100 to capture a wide range of light intensities without requiring manual intervention or a larger filter wheel mechanism.

[0031] FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate perspective views of an imaging system 300 configured in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. Referring first to FIG. 3, the imaging system 300 includes a measurement camera 305, a motorized filter assembly 310, and a lens assembly 312. The measurement camera 305 can include an image sensor 308 and control electronics 309, which can be the same as or generally similar to the image sensor 108 and the control electronics 109 as described in relation to FIGS. 1 and 2 above, respectively. In some embodiments, the measurement camera 305 can be a digital camera.

[0032] The lens assembly 312 can include an imaging lens 314. The imaging lens 314 can be the same as or generally similar to the imaging lens 114 described in relation to FIGS. 1 and 2 above. As shown, the motorized filter assembly 310 can be mounted to or mechanically supported by a mounting fixture 320. For example, the motorized filter assembly 310 can be fastened to the mounting fixture 320 by a screw, a bolt, and / or another mechanical connector. As another example, the motorized filter assembly 310 can be reversibly attached to the mounting fixture 320. The mounting fixture 320 can be fastened to the measurement camera 305 by a screw, a bolt, and / or another mechanical connector.

[0033] The motorized filter assembly 310 can include a filter 301, a filter bracket 302, and a motor 304. The filter 301 can be a neutral density filter, abandpass, fdter5„a..QJt..fita..or another suitable type of filter. The filter bracket 302 can be configured to hold the filter 301 and / or can be operably coupled to the motor 304. In some embodiments, the motor 304 can be the same as or generally similar to the motor 104 described in relation to FIGS. 1 and 2 above, except that the motor 304 can transition a position of the filter bracket 302 by rotating the filter bracket 302 rather than flipping the filter bracket 302 vertically, as described below.

[0034] In operation, the motor 304 can be configured to transition (e.g., move, flip, rotate) the filter bracket 302 (and therefore the filter 301 held by the filter bracket 302) between a third position in which the filter 301 is positioned away from the imaging lens 314 (as shown in FIG. 3) and a fourth position in which the filter 301 is moved in front of the imaging lens 314 (as shown in FIG. 4). For example, when moving the filter bracket 302 from the third position (FIG. 3) to the fourth position (FIG. 4), the motor 304 can move the filter bracket 302 (and-9- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00therefore the filter 301) generally along arrow B shown in FIG. 4. In the third position, the filter 301 can be positioned at a location generally above and horizontally displaced from an entrance pupil and / or an entrance aperture of the imaging lens 314. Additionally, or alternatively, in the third position, the filter 301 can be oriented generally perpendicular to an optical axis of the imaging system 300 that extends between an entrance pupil of the imaging lens 314 and the image sensor 308 of the camera 305. In the fourth position, the filter 301 can be positioned at a location generally in front of the entrance pupil and / or the entrance aperture of the imaging lens 314 while remaining generally perpendicular to the optical axis of the imaging system 300. As another example, when moving the filter bracket 302 from the fourth position (FIG. 4) to the third position (FIG. 3), the motor 304 can move the filter bracket 302 (and therefore the filter 301) in generally the opposite direction of arrow B shown in FIG. 4.

[0035] In the third position (FIG. 3), the filter 301 can be positioned outside a field of view of the image sensor 308 and / or can be positioned such that light along the optical axis can enter the imaging lens 314 without first passing through the filter 301. The optical axis can intersect (and extend between) (i) an entrance pupil or an entrance aperture at the front of the imaging lens 314 and (ii) the image sensor 308. In other words, when the filter bracket 302 and the filter 301 are at the third position, unfiltered light can be permitted to reach and enter the imaging lens 314. For example, in the third position, the filter 301 can be positioned at a location generally above and horizontally displaced from the entrance pupil of the imaging lens 314, the entrance aperture of the imaging lens 314, and / or the image sensor 308 of the camera 305. Additionally, or alternatively, in the third position, the filter 301 can be oriented generally perpendicular to the optical axis of the imaging system 300.

[0036] In the fourth position (FIG. 4), the filter 301 can be positioned within a field of view of the image sensor 308 and / or can be positioned such that light that enters the imaging lens 314 along an optical axis of the imaging system 300 first passes through the filter 301. For example, in the fourth position, the filter 301 can be oriented generally perpendicular to the optical axis and / or can be at a location generally along the optical axis that is in line with the entrance pupil, the entrance aperture, and / or the image sensor 308.

[0037] In operation, the camera 305, the lens assembly 312, and the motorized filter assembly 310 can work in conjunction to capture images, such as of a DUT, in a same or generally similar manner to the manner described in relation to FIGS. 1 and 2 above. In some embodiments, the motor 304 can be coupled to onboard control electronics of the motorized-10- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00filter assembly 310 and / or to the control electronics 309 of the camera 305. in a same or generally similar manner to the manner described in relation to FIGS. 1 and 2 above.

[0038] The motorized filter assembly 310 and the overall imaging system 300 can be sized and / or otherwise designed to fit within a tight mechanical envelope. The compact design can allow the imaging system 300 to be installed and used in existing inspection stations with limited space. Despite its compact size, the imaging system 300 can be configured to measure both the brightest and darkest patterns on a DUT. The ability to rotate the filter 301 in and out of the optical path of the lens 314 can enable the imaging system 300 to capture a wide range of light intensities without requiring manual intervention or a larger filter wheel mechanism.

[0039] FIGS. 5-8 illustrate perspective views of an imaging system 500 configured in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. As shown, the imaging system 500 includes a measurement camera 505, a first motorized filter assembly 510-1, a second motorized filter assembly 510-2, and a lens assembly 512. The measurement camera 505 can include an image sensor 508 and control electronics 509, which can be the same as or generally similar to the image sensor 108 and the control electronics 109 as described in relation to FIGS.1 and 2 above, respectively. In some embodiments, the measurement camera 505 can be a digital camera.

[0040] The lens assembly 512 can include an imaging lens 514. The imaging lens 514 can be the same as or generally similar to the imaging lens 114 described in relation to FIGS. 1 and 2 above. As shown, the first motorized filter assembly 510-1 and the second motorized filter assembly 510-2 can be mounted to or mechanically supported by a first mounting fixture 520-1 and a second mounting fixture 520-2, respectively. For example, the motorized filter assemblies 510-1, 510-2 can be fastened to the mounting fixtures 520-1, 520-2 by a screw, a bolt, and / or another mechanical connector. As another example, the motorized filter assemblies 510-1, 510- 2 can be reversibly attached to the mounting fixtures 520-1, 520-2. The mounting fixtures 520- 1 , 520-2 can be fastened to the measurement camera 505 by a screw, a bolt, and / or another mechanical connector.

[0041] The first motorized filter assembly 510-1 can include a first filter 501-1, a first filter bracket 502-1, and a first motor 504-1. The first filter 501-1 can be a neutral density filter.another Suitable type of filter. The first filter bracket 502-1 can be configured to hold the first filter 501-1 and / or can be operably coupled to the first motor 504-1. In some embodiments, the first motor 504-1-11- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00can be the same as or generally similar to the motor 304 described in relation to FIGS. 3 and 4 above. The second motorized filter assembly 510-2 can include a second filter 501-2, a second filter bracket 502-2, and a second motor 504-2. The second filter 501-2 can be a neutral density filter, aa..bandpass, fd.rat., lifter. or another suitable type of filter. The second filter bracket 502-2 can be configured to hold the second filter 501-2 and / or can be operably coupled to the second motor 504-2. In some embodiments, the second motor 504-2 can be generally similar to the first motor 504-1, except that the second motor 504-2 transitions the position of the second filter bracket 502-2, as described in more detail below.

[0042] In operation, the first motor 504-1 can be configured to transition (e.g., move, flip, rotate) the first filter bracket 502-1 (and therefore the first filter 501-1 held by the first filter bracket 502-1) between a fifth position in which the first filter 501-1 is positioned away from the imaging lens 514 (as shown in FIG. 5) and a sixth position in which the first filter 501-1 is moved in front of the imaging lens 514 (as shown in FIG. 6). For example, when moving the first filter bracket 502-1 from the fifth position (FIG. 5) to the sixth position (FIG. 6), the first motor 504-1 can move the first filter bracket 502-1 (and therefore the first filter 501-1) generally along arrow C shown in FIG. 6. In the fifth position, the first filter 501-1 can be positioned at a location generally above and horizontally displaced from an entrance pupil and / or an entrance aperture of the imaging lens 314. Additionally, or alternatively, in the fifth position, the first filter 501-1 can be oriented generally perpendicular to an optical axis of the imaging system 500 that extends between an entrance pupil of the imaging lens 514 and the image sensor 508 of the camera 505. In the sixth position, the first filter 501-1 can be positioned at a location generally in front of the entrance pupil and / or the entrance aperture of the imaging lens 514 while remaining generally perpendicular to the optical axis of the imaging system 500. As another example, when moving the first filter bracket 502-1 from the sixth position (FIG. 6) to the fifth position (FIG. 5), the first motor 504-1 can move the first filter bracket 502-1 (and therefore the first filter 501-1) in generally the opposite direction of arrow C shown in FIG. 6.

[0043] In the fifth position (FIG. 5), the first filter 501-1 can be positioned outside a field of view of the image sensor 508 and / or can be positioned such that light along the optical axis can enter the imaging lens 514 without first passing through the first filter 501-1. The optical axis can intersect (and extend between) (i) an entrance pupil or an entrance aperture at the front of the imaging lens 514 and (ii) the image sensor 508. In other words, when the first filter bracket 502-1 and the first filter 501-1 are at the fifth position, unfiltered light can be permitted to reach -12- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00and enter the imaging lens 514. For example, in the fifth position, the first filter 501-1 can be positioned at a location generally above and horizontally displaced from the entrance pupil of the imaging lens 514, the entrance aperture of the imaging lens 514, and / or the image sensor 508 of the camera 505. Additionally, or alternatively, in the fifth position, the first filter 501-1 can be oriented generally perpendicular to the optical axis of the imaging system 500.

[0044] In the sixth position (FIG. 6), the first filter 501-1 can be positioned within a field of view of the image sensor 508 and / or can be positioned such that light that enters the imaging lens 514 along an optical axis of the imaging system 500 first passes through the first filter 501-1. For example, in the sixth position, the first filter 501 - 1 can be oriented generally perpendicular to the optical axis and / or can be at a location generally along the optical axis that is in line with the entrance pupil, the entrance aperture, and / or the image sensor 508.

[0045] In operation, the second motor 504-2 can be configured to transition (e.g., move, flip, rotate) the second filter bracket 502-2 (and therefore the second filter 501-2 held by the second filter bracket 502-2) between a seventh position in which the second filter 501-2 is positioned away from the imaging lens 514 (as shown in FIG. 5) and an eighth position in which the second filter 501-2 is moved in front of the imaging lens 514 (as shown in FIG. 7). For example, when moving the second filter bracket 502-2 from the seventh position (FIG. 5) to the eighth position (FIG. 7), the second motor 504-2 can move the second filter bracket 502-2 (and therefore the second filter 501-2) generally along arrow D shown in FIG. 7. In the seventh position, the second filter 501 -2 can be positioned at a location generally below and horizontally displaced from an entrance pupil and / or an entrance aperture of the imaging lens 514. For example, in the seventh position, the second filter 501-2 can be horizontally displaced from the entrance pupil and / or the entrance aperture in an opposite horizontal direction to the horizontal displacement of the first filter 501-1 with respect to the entrance pupil and / or the entrance aperture. Additionally, or alternatively, in the seventh position, the second filter 501-2 can be oriented generally perpendicular to the optical axis of the imaging system 500. In the eighth position, the second filter 501-2 can be positioned at a location generally in front of the entrance pupil and / or the entrance aperture of the imaging lens 514 while remaining generally perpendicular to the optical axis of the imaging system 500. As another example, when moving the second filter bracket 502-2 from the eighth position (FIG. 7) to the seventh position (FIG.5), the second motor 504-2 can move the second filter bracket 502-2 (and therefore the second filter 501-2) in generally the opposite direction of arrow D shown in FIG. 7.-13- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00

[0046] In the seventh position (FIG. 5), the second filter 501-2 can be positioned outside a field of view of the image sensor 508 and / or can be positioned such that light along the optical axis can enter the imaging lens 514 without first passing through the second filter 501-2. The optical axis can intersect (and extend between) (i) an entrance pupil or an entrance aperture at the front of the imaging lens 514 and (ii) the image sensor 508. In other words, when the second filter bracket 502-2 and the second filter 501-2 are at the seventh position, unfiltered light can be permitted to reach and enter the imaging lens 514. For example, in the seventh position, the second filter 501-2 can be positioned at a location generally below and horizontally displaced from the entrance pupil of the imaging lens 514, the entrance aperture of the imaging lens 514, and / or the image sensor 508 of the camera 505. Additionally, or alternatively, in the seventh position, the second filter 501-2 can be oriented generally perpendicular to the optical axis of the imaging system 500.

[0047] In the eighth position (FIG. 7), the second filter 501-2 can be positioned within a field of view of the image sensor 508 and / or can be positioned such that light that enters the imaging lens 514 along an optical axis of the imaging system 500 first passes through the second filter 501-2. For example, in the eighth position, the second filter 501-2 can be oriented generally perpendicular to the optical axis and / or can be at a location generally along the optical axis that is in line with the entrance pupil, the entrance aperture, and / or the image sensor 508.

[0048] As depicted in FIG. 8, the first filter bracket 502-1 can be positioned in the sixth position and the second filter bracket 502-2 can be positioned in the eighth position simultaneously. For example, the first motor 504-1 can first move the first filter bracket 502-1 (and therefore the first filter 501-1) generally along arrow C, and then the second motor 504-2 can move the second filter bracket 502-2 (and therefore the second filter 501-2) generally along arrow D. Alternatively, the second motor 504-2 can move the second filter bracket 502-2 first or the filter brackets 502-1, 502-2 can be moved simultaneously.

[0049] In operation, the camera 505, the lens assembly 512, and the motorized filter assemblies 510-1, 510-2 can work in conjunction to capture images, such as of a DUT, in a same or generally similar manner to the manner described in relation to FIGS. 1-4 above. However, the motorized filter assemblies 510-1, 510-2 can position both, one, or neither of the filters 501-1, 501-2 in front of the lens 514 while an image is being captured, enabling additional light filtering possibilities and therefore greater flexibility for image capturing within a single system. In some embodiments, the first motor 504-1 can be coupled to onboard control electronics of the-14- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00first motorized filter assembly 510-1 and / or to the control electronics 509 of the camera 505, in a same or generally similar manner to the manner described in relation to FIGS. 1 and 2 above. In these and other embodiments, the second motor 504-2 can be coupled to onboard control electronics of the second motorized filter assembly 510-2 and / or to the control electronics 509 of the camera 505, in a same or generally similar manner to the manner described in relation to FIGS. 1 and 2 above.

[0050] The motorized filter assembly 510 and the overall imaging system 500 can be sized and / or otherwise designed to fit within a tight mechanical envelope. The compact design can allow the imaging system 500 to be installed and used in existing inspection stations with limited space. Despite its compact size, the imaging system 500 can be configured to measure both the brightest and darkest patterns on a DUT. The ability to selectively rotate the filters 501-1, 501-2 in and out of the optical path of the lens 514 can enable the imaging system 500 to capture a wide range of light intensities without requiring manual intervention or a larger filter wheel mechanism.

[0051] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating a method 900 of operating an imaging system in accordance with various embodiments of the present technology. The imaging system can be the imaging system 100 described above with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, or another imaging system configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology. The method 900 is illustrated as a series of blocks or steps 910, 920, 930, and 940. All or a subset of one or more of the steps 910, 920, 930, and / or 940 can be executed (e.g., automatically, at the direction of an external device or user input, and / or without human interaction) by various components of the imaging system, such as by onboard control electronics and / or a motor of a motorized filter assembly, by control electronics and / or an image sensor of an imaging camera, and / or by an imaging lens of a lens assembly. Additionally, or alternatively, all or a subset of one or more of the steps 910, 920, 930, and / or 940 can be executed in accordance with the discussion above and / or with the discussion below.

[0052] The method 900 begins at step 910 by determining imaging requirements. In some embodiments, determining imaging requirements can include analyzing characteristics of a DUT (e.g., a digital display), such as luminance levels of light emitted (or to be emitted) by the DUT. In these and other embodiments, determining imaging requirements can include receiving instructions from an external device or user input that identify luminance levels of light emitted (or to be emitted) by the DUT and / or other information that facilitate identifying an appropriate-15- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00position of a filter of the motorized filter assembly. In these and still other embodiments, imaging requirements can be influenced by factors such as the brightness of the DUT and / or measurement requirements (e.g., high-resolution imaging of individual sub-pixels, a high dynamic power range of the camera to measure high / maximum and / or low / near-zero luminance levels).

[0053] At step 920, the method 900 continues by adjusting the filter position according to the imaging requirements determined at step 910. In some embodiments, adjusting the filter position can include sending (e.g., using control electronics onboard the motorized filter assembly and / or control electronics of the camera) instructions to the motor of the motorized filter assembly to move the filter bracket (and therefore the filter held by the filter bracket). In these and other embodiments, adjusting the filter position can include moving, transitioning, or flipping (using the motor) the filter bracket toward a first position in front of an imaging lens of the imaging system or toward a second position out of the way of the imaging lens. For example, when the imaging requirements determined at step 910 indicate use of the filter is appropriate for taking a measurement of a DUT (e.g., for imaging a pattern displayed by a DUT at high or maximum luminance levels), adjusting the filter position can include moving the filter bracket and the filter to the first position in front of the imaging lens, such as from the second position. As another example, when the imaging requirements determined at step 910 indicate that use of the filter is not appropriate for taking a measurement of a DUT (e.g., for imaging a pattern displayed by a DUT at low or near-zero luminance levels), adjusting the filter position can include moving the filter bracket and the filter to the second position out of the way of the imaging lens, such as from the first position and / or to a position above the imaging lens (or above an entrance pupil of the imaging lens).

[0054] At step 930, the method 900 continues by capturing image data of a DUT with the filter bracket and the filter in the appropriate position for the imaging requirements identified at step 910. In some embodiments, the camera can capture an image of the DUT through the lens assembly, with light from the DUT measured by the camera being either filtered (having passed through the filter before entering the imaging lens and / or striking the image sensor) or unfiltered (having not passed through the filter before entering the imaging lens and / or striking the image sensor) based at least in part on the position of the filter after step 920. In some embodiments, the method 900 can return to step 910, such as to capture a next image of a DUT. Additionally, or alternatively, the method 900 can proceed to step 940.-16- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00

[0055] At step 940, the method 900 continues by processing image data captured at step 930. In some embodiments, processing the image data can include analyzing the captured image, performing measurements, and / or preparing the data for further inspection tasks. As a specific example, processing the image data can include executing a demura calibration process on the DUT using the image data captured at step 930 and / or one or more other images of the DUT (e.g., captured during one or more other iterations of the steps 910, 920, and / or 930 of the method 900).

[0056] As discussed above, the method 900 illustrated in FIG. 9 can be used in automated inspection processes of DUTs and / or to measure patterns displayed by (or other characteristics of) the DUTs, including across a wide range of luminance levels. By adjusting the filter position based on specific imaging requirements, the method 900 can allow for efficient measurement of DUTs without manual (human) intervention.

[0057] Although the steps 910, 920, 930, and 940 of the method 900 are discussed and illustrated in a particular order, the method 900 of FIG. 9 is not so limited. In other embodiments, all or a subset of one or more of the steps 910, 920, 930, and 940 of the method 900 can be performed in a different order. In these and other embodiments, all or a subset of any of the steps 910, 920, 930, and 940 of the method 900 can be performed before, during, and / or after all or a subset of any of the other steps 910, 920, 930, and 940 of the method 900. Furthermore, a person skilled in the art will readily recognize that the method 900 can be altered and still remain within these and other embodiments of the present technology. For example, all or a subset of one or more steps 910, 920, 930, and 940 of the method 900 can be omitted and / or repeated in some embodiments.

[0058] As discussed above, imaging systems and associated methods of the present technology are expected to offer several advantages. For example, the imaging system 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 (and other imaging systems configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology) can have a compact design, which allows for operation in limited spaces. This compact form factor can enable such imaging systems to be installed in existing inspection stations where space is at a premium. Another advantage of such imaging systems is that the f-number (F / #) of their imaging lenses can be reduced to improve the diffraction-limited resolution and thereby improve image quality. As a result, such imaging systems can be particularly well-suited for applications that require high-resolution imaging of microscopic details, such as individual sub-pixels on digital displays such as OLED, LCD, or-17- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00Micro LED panels. The ability of such imaging systems to resolve microscopic details can be useful for quality control and performance evaluation.

[0059] Another potential application of such imaging systems can be to perform demura corrections on DUTs. For example, such imaging systems, based at least in part on their motorized filter assemblies, can be capable of capturing, via automated control software, images across a wide range of luminance levels without requiring manual intervention or system reconfiguration (e.g. between consecutive measurements).

[0060] Such imaging systems can also be configured to achieve short exposure times, which can be beneficial in various inspection scenarios. Short exposure times, for example, can help minimize motion blur and allow for faster inspection processes, potentially increasing throughput in manufacturing or quality control settings. Additionally, the motorized filter assemblies, controlled by corresponding control electronics, can allow for rapid switching between filtered and unfiltered imaging modes. This capability can enable the imaging systems to quickly adapt to changing light conditions or inspection requirements without the need for manual filter changes or system adjustments (e.g., between consecutive measurements).

[0061] Although not shown so as to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of the embodiments of the technology, any of the forgoing systems and methods described above can include and / or be performed by a computing device configured to direct and / or arrange components of the systems and / or to receive, arrange, store, analyze, and / or otherwise process data received, for example, from the machine and / or other components of the systems. As such, such a computing device includes the necessary hardware and corresponding computerexecutable instructions to perform these tasks. More specifically, a computing device configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology can include a processor, a storage device, input / output device, one or more sensors, and / or any other suitable subsystems and / or components (e.g., displays, speakers, communication modules, etc.). The storage device can include a set of circuits or a network of storage components configured to retain information and provide access to the retained information. For example, the storage device can include volatile and / or non-volatile memory. As a more specific example, the storage device can include random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks or tapes, and / or flash memory.

[0062] The computing device can also include (e.g., non-transitory) computer readable media (e.g., the storage device, disk drives, and / or other storage media) including computerexecutable instructions stored thereon that, when executed by the processor and / or computing-18- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00device, cause the systems to perform one or more of the methods described herein. Moreover, the processor can be configured for performing or otherwise controlling steps, calculations, analysis, and any other functions associated with the methods described herein.

[0063] In some embodiments, the storage device can store one or more databases used to store data collected by the systems as well as data used to direct and / or adjust components of the systems. In one embodiment, for example, a database is an HTML file designed by the assignee of the present disclosure. In other embodiments, however, data is stored in other types of databases or data files.

[0064] One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that various components of the systems (e.g., the computing device) can be further divided into subcomponents, or that various components and functions of the systems may be combined and integrated. In addition, these components can communicate via wired and / or wireless communication, as well as by information contained in the storage media.C. Examples

[0065] Several aspects of the present technology are set forth in the following examples. Although several aspects of the present technology are set forth in examples specifically directed to systems, apparatuses, and methods, these aspects of the present technology can similarly be set forth in examples specifically directed to any one or more of systems, apparatuses, and / or methods. Additionally, these aspects of the present technology may be set forth in examples directed to (e.g., non-transitory) computer-readable media in other embodiments.1. An imaging system, comprising:a camera having an image sensor;a lens assembly having an imaging lens operatively coupled to the camera such that the imaging lens is positioned in front of the image sensor; anda motorized filter assembly including —a filter, anda motor configured to move the filter between a first position in front of the imaging lens and a second position away from the imaging lens.2. The imaging system of example 1 wherein:the motor is a flipper motor;-19- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00when moving the filter from the second position to the first position, the motor is configured to flip the filter in front of the imaging lens such that light that enters the lens assembly first passes through the filter; andwhen moving the filter from the first position to the second position, the motor is configured to flip the filter out of the way of the imaging lens such that light that enters the imaging lens does not first pass through the filter.3. The imaging system of example 1 or example 2 wherein, in the first position, the filter (a) is oriented generally perpendicular to an optical axis of the imaging system that extends between an entrance pupil of the imaging lens and the image sensor and / or (b) is positioned at a location along the optical axis that is generally in line with the image sensor.4. The imaging system of any of examples 1-3 wherein, in the second position, the filter (a) is oriented generally parallel to an optical axis of the imaging system and / or (b) is positioned at a location above an entrance pupil of the imaging lens and the image sensor.5. The imaging system of any of examples 1-4 wherein the camera further includes control electronics, and wherein the motor is couplable to the control electronics such that the control electronics are configured to control movement of the filter via the motor.6. The imaging system of example 5 wherein the control electronics are configured to receive (i) signals from an external device or (ii) user input, to determine an appropriate position for the filter.7. The imaging system of any of examples 1-6 wherein the filter is a neutral density filter.8. The imaging system of any of examples 1-7, further comprising a mechanical shroud at least partially enclosing the lens assembly, wherein the motorized filter assembly is attached to and supported by the mechanical shroud.9. A motorized filter assembly for an imaging system, comprising:a filter bracket configured to hold a filter; and-20- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00a motor operatively coupled to the filter bracket and configured to move the filter bracket between (i) a first position in which the filter bracket is in a first orientation and (ii) a second position in which the filter bracket is in a second orientation that is generally perpendicular to the first orientation.10. The motorized filter assembly of example 9, further comprising the filter, wherein:the filter is generally oriented in the first orientation when the filter bracket is in the first position; andthe filter is generally oriented in the second orientation when the filter bracket is in the second position.11. The motorized filter assembly of example 10 wherein the filter is a neutral density filter.12. The motorized filter assembly of any of examples 9-11 wherein the motor is a flipper motor.13. The motorized filter assembly of any of examples 9-12 wherein the motorized filter assembly is couplable to a mechanical shroud that is configured to at least partially enclose an imaging lens of an imaging system.14. The motorized filter assembly of example 13, further comprising the mechanical shroud.15. The motorized filter assembly of example 13 or example 14 wherein the motorized filter assembly is reversibly attachable to the mechanical shroud.16. The motorized filter assembly of example 13 or example 14 wherein the motorized filter assembly is integral with the mechanical shroud.17. The motorized filter assembly of any of example 9-16 wherein the motor is couplable to control electronics of a camera such that the control electronics, when coupled to-21- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00the motor, are configured to move the filter bracket between the first position and the second position via the motor.18. The motorized filter assembly of any of examples 9-17, further comprising onboard control electronics operably coupled to the motor such that the onboard control electronics are configured to move the filter bracket between the first position and the second position via the motor.19. A method of operating an imaging system, the method comprising: determining imaging requirements for capturing an image of a device under test (DUT); adjusting a position of a filter based at least in part on the imaging requirements, wherein adjusting the position of the filter includes moving, using a motor of a motorized filter assembly, the filter between a first position in front of a lens assembly of the imaging system and a second position away from the lens assembly; and capturing image data of the DUT with the filter in the adjusted position.20. The method of example 19, wherein determining the imaging requirements comprises analyzing luminance levels of light emitted or to be emitted by the DUT.21. The method of example 19 or example 20 wherein capturing image data of the DUT comprises:capturing a first image of the DUT with the filter in the first position; and capturing a second image of the DUT with the filter in the second position.22. The method of any of examples 19-21, further comprising:determining, after capturing the image data, updated imaging requirements; adjusting the position of the filter to a new position based at least in part on the updated imaging requirements; andcapturing additional image data of the DUT with the filter in the new position.23. The method of example 22, further comprising processing the image data and the additional image data, wherein processing the image data and the additional image data-22- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00comprises performing a demura calibration process using the image data and the additional image data.D. Conclusion

[0066] The above detailed descriptions of embodiments of the technology are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the technology to the precise form disclosed above. Although specific embodiments of, and examples for, the technology are described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the technology as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize. For example, although steps are presented in a given order above, alternative embodiments can perform steps in a different order. Furthermore, the various embodiments described herein can also be combined to provide further embodiments.

[0067] From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that specific embodiments of the technology have been described herein for purposes of illustration, but well-known structures and functions have not been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of the embodiments of the technology.

[0068] Where the context permits, singular or plural terms can also include the plural or singular term, respectively. In addition, unless the word “or” is expressly limited to mean only a single item exclusive from the other items in reference to a list of two or more items, then the use of “or” in such a list is to be interpreted as including (a) any single item in the list, (b) all of the items in the list, or (c) any combination of the items in the list. Furthermore, as used herein, the phrase “and / or” as in “A and / or B” refers to A alone, B alone, and both A and B. Additionally, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and “with” are used throughout to mean including at least the recited feature(s) such that any greater number of the same features and / or additional types of other features are not precluded. Moreover, as used herein, the phrases “based on,” “depends on,” “as a result of,” and “in response to” shall not be construed as a reference to a closed set of conditions. For example, an exemplary step that is described as “based on condition A” can be based on both condition A and condition B without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In other words, as used herein, the phrase “based on” shall be construed in the same manner as the phrase “based at least in part on” or the phrase “based at least partially on.”

[0069] From the foregoing, it will also be appreciated that various modifications can be made without deviating from the disclosure or the technology. For example, one of ordinary skill-23- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00in the art will understand that various components of the technology can be further divided into subcomponents, or that various components and functions of the technology can be combined and integrated. In addition, certain aspects of the technology described in the context of particular embodiments can also be combined or eliminated in other embodiments. Furthermore, although advantages associated with certain embodiments of the technology have been described in the context of those embodiments, other embodiments can also exhibit such advantages, and not all embodiments need necessarily exhibit such advantages to fall within the scope of the technology. Accordingly, the disclosure and associated technology can encompass other embodiments not expressly shown or described herein.-24- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1

Claims

077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO00CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An imaging system, comprising:a camera having an image sensor;a lens assembly having an imaging lens operatively coupled to the camera such that the imaging lens is positioned in front of the image sensor; anda motorized filter assembly including —a filter, anda motor configured to move the filter between a first position in front of the imaging lens and a second position away from the imaging lens.

2. The imaging system of claim 1 wherein:the motor is a flipper motor;when moving the filter from the second position to the first position, the motor is configured to flip the filter in front of the imaging lens such that light that enters the lens assembly first passes through the filter; andwhen moving the filter from the first position to the second position, the motor is configured to flip the filter out of the way of the imaging lens such that light that enters the imaging lens does not first pass through the filter.

3. The imaging system of claim 1 wherein, in the first position, the filter (a) is oriented generally perpendicular to an optical axis of the imaging system that extends between an entrance pupil of the imaging lens and the image sensor and / or (b) is positioned at a location along the optical axis that is generally in line with the image sensor.

4. The imaging system of claim 1 wherein, in the second position, the filter (a) is oriented generally parallel to an optical axis of the imaging system and / or (b) is positioned at a location above an entrance pupil of the imaging lens and the image sensor.-25- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO005. The imaging system of claim 1 wherein the camera further includes control electronics, and wherein the motor is couplable to the control electronics such that the control electronics are configured to control movement of the filter via the motor.

6. The imaging system of claim 5 wherein the control electronics are configured to receive (i) signals from an external device or (ii) user input, to determine an appropriate position for the filter.

7. The imaging system of claim 1 wherein the filter is a neutral density filter.

8. The imaging system of claim 1, further comprising a mechanical shroud at least partially enclosing the lens assembly, wherein the motorized filter assembly is attached to and supported by the mechanical shroud.

9. A motorized filter assembly for an imaging system, comprising:a filter bracket configured to hold a filter; anda motor operatively coupled to the filter bracket and configured to move the filter bracket between (i) a first position in which the filter bracket is in a first orientation and (ii) a second position in which the filter bracket is in a second orientation that is generally perpendicular to the first orientation.

10. The motorized filter assembly of claim 9, further comprising the filter, wherein: the filter is generally oriented in the first orientation when the filter bracket is in the first position; andthe filter is generally oriented in the second orientation when the filter bracket is in the second position.

11. The motorized filter assembly of claim 10 wherein the filter is a neutral density filter.

12. The motorized filter assembly of claim 9 wherein the motor is a flipper motor.-26- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO0013. The motorized filter assembly of claim 9 wherein the motorized filter assembly is couplable to a mechanical shroud that is configured to at least partially enclose an imaging lens of an imaging system.

14. The motorized filter assembly of claim 13, further comprising the mechanical shroud.

15. The motorized filter assembly of claim 13 wherein the motorized filter assembly is reversibly attachable to the mechanical shroud.

16. The motorized filter assembly of claim 13 wherein the motorized filter assembly is integral with the mechanical shroud.

17. The motorized filter assembly of claim 9 wherein the motor is couplable to control electronics of a camera such that the control electronics, when coupled to the motor, are configured to move the filter bracket between the first position and the second position via the motor.

18. The motorized filter assembly of claim 9, further comprising onboard control electronics operably coupled to the motor such that the onboard control electronics are configured to move the filter bracket between the first position and the second position via the motor.

19. A method of operating an imaging system, the method comprising: determining imaging requirements for capturing an image of a device under test (DUT); adjusting a position of a filter based at least in part on the imaging requirements, wherein adjusting the position of the filter includes moving, using a motor of a motorized filter assembly, the filter between a first position in front of a lens assembly of the imaging system and a second position away from the lens assembly; and capturing image data of the DUT with the filter in the adjusted position.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein determining the imaging requirements comprises analyzing luminance levels of light emitted or to be emitted by the DUT.-27- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1077433.8019. WO00M84097618.1 Docket No. 077433.8019.WO0021. The method of claim 19 wherein capturing image data of the DUT comprises: capturing a first image of the DUT with the filter in the first position; and capturing a second image of the DUT with the filter in the second position.

22. The method of claim 19, further comprising:determining, after capturing the image data, updated imaging requirements; adjusting the position of the filter to a new position based at least in part on the updated imaging requirements; andcapturing additional image data of the DUT with the filter in the new position.

23. The method of claim 22, further comprising processing the image data and the additional image data, wherein processing the image data and the additional image data comprises performing a demura calibration process using the image data and the additional image data.-28- 077433.8019.WO00M 84216549.1

Images