Bolometer Signal Correction via Physical Temperature Model
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Solution Overview
Problem
Infrared imaging bolometer arrays face challenges with spatial non-uniformity in signal response due to resistance dispersion and thermal drift, leading to fixed pattern noise and requiring costly shutter-based correction methods or extensive interpolation tables.
Innovation Solution
A compact physical model of temperature behavior is used to correct bolometer signals based on focal plane temperature measurements, estimating resistance and continuous levels without the need for shutters or extensive tables, utilizing a limited number of parameters for accurate and fast calculation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If shutter-based correction methods are used to compensate for bolometer offset dispersion, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical shutter system with an electronic correction method. Instead of using a physical shutter to create uniform scenes for calibration, the system uses electronic processing to measure offset values and apply corrections digitally, thereby eliminating mechanical complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital model (copy) of the bolometer array's offset characteristics by measuring response to uniform scenes, then uses this model to correct future measurements. This virtual representation eliminates the need for physical shutter mechanisms while preserving the ability to achieve uniform reference conditions.
2Measurement precision
If extensive interpolation tables are used to correct temperature variations, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and data processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the correction approach from using extensive interpolation tables with many parameters to using a simplified physical model with key parameters (activation energy, reference resistance). This parameter transformation reduces data processing complexity while maintaining correction accuracy through analytical calculations rather than tabular interpolation.
3Measurement precision
If reference image acquisition is performed to correct offset dispersion, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time occurs during the reference image acquisition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs offset calibration during manufacturing or initial setup, storing the offset values for later use. This preliminary action eliminates the need for time-consuming reference image acquisition during normal operation, as the correction data is already prepared and can be applied immediately to subsequent measurements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach effectively corrects signal offsets over time, improving image quality by accurately modeling temperature behavior and reducing manufacturing costs, while eliminating the need for mechanical shutters and extensive interpolation resources.
Implementation Method 1
means for absorbing the infrared radiation and converting the same into heat
Implementation Method 2
converting the same into heat
Implementation Method 3
thermometry means which, in the context of a bolometric detector, employ a resistive element
Implementation Method 4
means for thermally insulating the detector, so as to allow it to warm up under the action of the infrared radiation
Implementation Method 5
thermometry means which, in the context of a bolometric detector, employ a resistive element
Implementation Method 6
the physical variable is the electrical resistivity of the material
Data Source
AI summary
An infrared radiation detection device comprising: a substrate; a matrix of at least one line of elements for detecting the radiation, each comprising a resistive imaging bolometer, the matrix being formed above the substrate; a bolometer reading circuit, a temperature measuring device for measuring the temperature in at least one point of the substrate; and a compensation circuit and data processing device for correcting the signal formed from each bolometer as a function of the temperature measured in at least one point of the substrate. The compensation circuit and data processing device capable of correcting the signal formed from the imaging bolometer by using a predetermined physical model of the temperature behavior of the signal.