Calibration Target Using Multispectral Bulb Arrays for Sensor Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Calibrating multispectral and hyperspectral imagery devices on airborne vehicles and satellites is challenging due to imaging errors caused by environmental variables, sensor defects, and system noise, which existing calibration methods fail to adequately address.
Innovation Solution
A calibration target system featuring a plurality of light-emitting bulbs of varying wavelengths, deployed in a container or seine net, which can be remotely controlled to provide a bright, uniform light source for image sensor calibration, allowing for the reduction of imaging errors by simulating flares or bright light arrays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional calibration methods are used, then calibration can be performed, but imaging errors caused by environmental variables, sensor defects, and system noise cannot be adequately compensated
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration target uses multiple light sources emitting at different predetermined wavelengths to simulate various spectral conditions. By changing the wavelength parameters of the light sources, the system can calibrate the image sensor across multiple spectral bands, thereby improving measurement precision and enabling better compensation for environmental variables and sensor defects.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration target is divided into multiple independent light-emitting bulbs, each emitting at specific wavelengths. This segmentation allows individual calibration of different spectral regions and enables targeted compensation for specific sensor defects in different wavelength ranges, enhancing both precision and reliability.
2Measurement precision
If multiple light sources with different wavelengths are used, then spectral calibration is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple light sources with different wavelengths are integrated into a single calibration target assembly with a unified container and mounting structure. This merging approach achieves spectral calibration across multiple bands while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure, balancing measurement precision with device complexity.
3Measurement precision
If high intensity light is used to saturate pixels, then calibration effectiveness is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration system uses periodic illumination where light sources are activated only during calibration periods rather than continuously. This periodic action allows high-intensity light to be used effectively for pixel saturation and accurate calibration while significantly reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous operation.
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
The system effectively calibrates image sensors by generating sufficient light to saturate pixels, compensating for errors caused by environmental conditions and atmospheric variables, and can be deployed in both water and terrestrial environments with minimal maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of bulbs that each emit light at one or more predetermined wavelengths
Data Source
AI summary
A calibration target for an image sensor can include a plurality of bulbs that each emit light at one or more predetermined wavelengths. The calibration target can also include a container circumscribing the plurality of bulbs. The plurality of bulbs can be stacked and scattered within a volume partially or fully enclosed by the container, and the container has an open top that defines an area for the calibration target. Additionally, the image sensor can be deployed on an aircraft or a satellite.