Compact Spectroradiometer with Interchangeable Optical Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices are inadequate for comprehensively evaluating the spectral irradiance and color characteristics of light sources and their interaction with samples, particularly in optometric applications where tinted lenses and light sources need assessment for user comfort and visual performance.
Innovation Solution
A compact device that functions as a transmission spectrometer, reflectance spectrometer, or spectroradiometer, capable of analyzing light in the 350 nm to 780 nm range, utilizing a spectrometer module and algorithms to determine spectral irradiance, illuminance, chromaticity, correlated color temperature, color rendering, and equivalent melanopic lux, with adjustable light sources and sample interaction capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate devices are used for spectroradiometry, transmission spectrometry, and reflectance spectrometry, then each measurement function can be performed with dedicated optimization, but device complexity and measurement time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single spectrometer device that can perform spectroradiometry, transmission spectrometry, and reflectance spectrometry by configuring different optical paths and sample holders. The device uses a standardized spectrometer core with interchangeable optical components and sample positioning systems, allowing one device to replace multiple specialized instruments while maintaining measurement capabilities for all three functions
Solution Approach 2:
The device divides the measurement system into modular components: a core spectrometer module, separate optical path configurations for different measurement modes, and interchangeable sample holders. This segmentation allows the device to switch between functions by reconfiguring optical paths rather than requiring completely separate systems for each measurement type
2Productivity
If multiple separate devices are used for different spectral measurements, then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but the total measurement time and loss of time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The unified spectrometer device allows all measurement types to be performed sequentially without moving samples between different instruments. The device maintains all necessary optical paths and sample holders within a single system, enabling rapid switching between measurement modes and eliminating the time loss associated with physical sample transfer and device reconfiguration
Solution Approach 2:
The device pre-configures multiple optical paths and sample holder positions ready for different measurement modes. When switching between spectroradiometry, transmission, and reflectance measurements, the system can quickly reposition components and adjust optical paths without requiring time-consuming manual reconfiguration or sample handling
3Ease of operation
If a compact device integrates multiple spectral measurement functions, then device portability and ease of operation improve, but measurement precision and reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates dynamic reconfiguration capabilities that allow optical paths and measurement modes to be adjusted during operation. The system can switch between different measurement configurations and adapt optical paths based on the specific measurement requirements, maintaining precision while providing ease of operation through automated mode switching and sample positioning
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
Enables precise measurement and analysis of light sources and samples, providing comprehensive data on spectral properties and color characteristics, enhancing user comfort and visual performance in optometric applications.
Implementation Method 1
the spectrometer module's output is then analyzed utilizing an algorithm in the device's computer to find the spectral irradiance of that received light
Implementation Method 2
The device contains a plurality of visible and UV sources (9) whose light flux is controlled electrically (7)
Implementation Method 3
which takes the input light flux and provides spectral intensity information as a function of wavelength
Data Source
AI summary
A compact spectroradiometric device with a digital data processing system used to determine the spectral irradiance, illuminance, chromaticity, correlated color temperature, color rendering, flicker, equivalent melanopic lux and other characteristics of a light source as well as those same characteristics as observed in the transmittance through or reflectance from a sample being illuminated by that light source is described.